James R. Potts

On June 18, 2025 Jim entered into the arms of the Lord. Born on June 26, 1964, in Harvey, Illinois, to Richard and Arlene (Marconi) Potts, Jim was a graduate of Rensselaer High School.

Jim honorably served in the United States Air Force and Army from 1987 to 1992 and again from 2008 to 2011, with postings in Alaska and various other U.S. locations. During his military service, he painted and later continued his passion for painting cars at Tim’s Auto Body & Sales in Rensselaer. He also worked as a welder for various manufacturing companies. He enjoyed his time when stationed in Alaska during the Gulf War and other various locations. Jim served in the Air Force, Army, National Guard and Air Guard. He was proud to have served.

He treasured his time as a child and as a young man spending time with his grandma Potts, his cousins, and brothers at grandma’s farm.

His marriage was to Connie Walker and she preceded him in death. Jim later married Charlene Koebcke and she survives him. Jim and Charlene were married 13 years. In 2012 he began a new chapter with Charlene on the farm in Benton County south of Remington. Here he enjoyed the serenity of walks around the pond with Charlene and their dogs, Beau and Addie. He also enjoyed caring for the horses, Credit, Dodger, Shorty, and Izzy.

A few of his precious memories were camping with his kids, a summer trip south with Zach where on the way home they discovered a new car show in Kentucky. The first “Cruisin the Heartland” show which he and Charlene attended in later years. Also, the James Dean Festival in the fall and any car show he could find, or country fairs and horse shows.

Jim was a very loving, caring, and generous guy. Sharing his faith and biblical knowledge brought him great joy.

His strength in his hard fought battle with cancer is an inspiration to us all. Jim loved cars and enjoyed spending time working on his classic Mustang and 68’ Ford truck.

He was welcomed into a loving and sometimes chaotic family and family events. He became the expert at stirring the noodles while helping prepare for family gatherings.

He was a loving and caring father, husband, friend, and companion. He is greatly missed. He loved the Lord and being able to share his book “Instructions for Jezreel.” Please honor him by going to instructionsforjezreel.com.

Jim is survived by his father and mother, both of Rensselaer and his wife, Charlene Koebcke of Remington. Two sons, Zachary (Kelsie) Potts of Colorado and Joshua Potts of West Lafayette Veterans Home. Two stepsons, Curtis and Christopher (Jennifer) Koebcke both or Remington. Two brothers, Scott (April) Potts of Francesville and Kenton (Crystal) Potts of Rensselaer. One special cousin, Jeff Potts. Grandchildren, Isabel Potts, Kiara and Karson Koebcke.

Preceding him in death along with his wife Connie, is their daughter, Ashley Potts.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 AM (EST) until the time of the Celebration of Life at 12:00 PM (EST) on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Faith Christian Tabernacle in Rensselaer. Friends and family are encouraged to drive their classic cars to the celebration in honor of Jim's love for them.

Memorial contributions may be made in James’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

He appreciated the small things in life, so take a moment and enjoy them as he did. Those are the most precious and treasured memoires.