GOSHEN, IN — James Russell LaRue, 91, passed away Friday, Oct. 14, 2016 in his home at Waterford Crossings.

He was born Dec. 27, 1924, in Goshen, to Russell James LaRue and Mildred Strong.

Jim entered the service as a high school senior serving proudly in World War II as a tail gunner in the Army Air Corp.

Upon completion of his tour of duty, he received his diploma from Goshen High School.

After he returned home, he met the love of his life Carol Jean Kehr.

He was a lifelong member of Plymouth United Church of Christ where he and Carol were married on Aug. 28, 1949.

They were married for 64 years before she passed away in 2014.

Jim was employed by NIPSCO until his retirement.

He worked for many years in the building that is now the home of Goshen Brewery.

He was also very involved with the American Legion, VFW and DAV serving in many different capacities.

He was one of two members who started the honor guard to serve at Elkhart County Veteran’s funerals which is still active today.

Preceding him in death were his wife Carol, his mother, father and stepfather, Clem Eberhart, sister Janet Gehring, and two brothers, Richard and Ken LaRue.

Jim leaves behind two sons, Jon (Brenda) of Millersburg and Michael of Morley of Michigan; grandchildren Travis LaRue, Carin Medford, Mattie Owens, and Jared LaRue; and three great-grandchildren.

The viewing will be at Yoder Culp Funeral Home, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2016 with funeral services at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26. Pastor Linda Sue Hewitt will officiate.

Cremation will follow the funeral service and burial, with military honors, at a later date in Violett Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to American Legion Post No.30, VFW or DAV.