James L. Burnham, Jr., from Portage, IN was born December 8, 1964 and passed away June 24, 2023.  Jim passed away at one of his most beloved places to be, his camper with his wife by his side.

Jim enjoyed "burning wood and drinking beer" at Twin Mills.  In his younger years, Jim loved playing baseball, floor hockey, and playing the trumpet.  He was proud to be able to play taps at funerals for our local veterans.

Jim moved to Hessville for several years and formed many special friendships with firefighters of the Hammond Fire Department.  Jim was proud to be parts manager at River Oaks Toyota for over 30 years where he met his best friend Louie (Sharon) Fioretti.  Jim recently worked at Castle Subaru.

Jim enjoyed riding his Harley, playing golf (he got a hole in one), sharing jokes, busting out a crazy dance move and just being with his family and friends.  Jim was loved by everyone who met him.  He was a kind soul and a gentleman.  Jim, Jimmy, Jimmy Lee, Jimbo, Uncle Slimboo, whatever you called him, he will be deeply missed.  Remember, "8 is great,"so play it on your next trip to the casino.

Jim was the best husband and son.  He always wanted to make sure we were cared for. Jim is survived by his wife, Michelle (Sojka), his mother, Pat, twin brothers, Corey and Kelly, Auntie, Carol Komenda, Aunt Linda (Burnham) Sanders, mother-in-law, Carolyn Sojka, brother-in-laws and their families, cousins, nieces and nephews, lifelong friends, the Kaminski family, Krivo Family, Bolsega Family and the Fioretti Family and we can't forget his puppy dog Woody.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Jim Burnham Sr., and Auntie, Judy Cooley, Grandma Burnham, his buddy Herm and sister-in-law, Marie Osanna.

Funeral services are Thursday, June 29, 2023, at 11 a.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage. The burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Portage with Rev. Steve Kosinski (who married us) officiating.  Visitation is Wednesday, June 28, 2023, from 3 to 8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. prayer service at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage.  (219) 762-3013.