James Everett Boles passed away peacefully at his home Monday evening, August 3, 2026. He was born on March 29, 1941, in Rensselaer, Indiana, to Lillian Pauline “Polly” and Everett H. Boles. He was the oldest of three children.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Mary F. Boles (Smith); his children, Cheryl A. Von Buskirk (Donald) of Covington, Tennessee, Mary Christine “Chris” Geyer (Jim) of Elkhart, Indiana, Kevin R. Boles (Renee) of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Chad E. Boles (Amanda) of Remington, Indiana; 15 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett H. Boles and Lillian Pauline “Polly” Snedeker, and his sister, Judy Hammon and brother William E. (Bill) Boles and a son, James E. Boles, Jr. (Jimmy) 

He served for 15 years in the Indiana National Guard, retiring as a sergeant.

Jim worked for 42 years as a welder at an East Chicago, Indiana, company that began as Youngstown Sheet and Tube. He retired in 2002.

Jim enjoyed gardening and tending to his apple orchard. He was also an avid Hunter. 

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers a memorial donation may be made to the American Legion 102 S. Oak Street Earl Park, IN 47942. Donations provide repair, restoration and purchase of new grave markers.