JAMES L. STROUD, age 69, of Hobart, passed away August 16, 2015 at Saint Mary Medical Center surrounded by his family. He was born on August 18, 1945 in Charleston, West Virginia to the late Lincoln and Edna Stroud. Jim graduated from Wirt High School in 1964 and from Indiana University, Bloomington in 1969 with a degree in social studies and history. He previously belonged to the Portage Jaycees and held all the offices at some point during his membership. Jim was a member of the Michigan Ave Methodist Church and the Roosevelt Masonic Lodge #716. He previously attended Hobart First United Methodist where he belonged to the Sunshine Gang and moderated a Bible study group. Jim was also an active member of the New Beginnings Transplant Support group. He will be deeply missed.

James is survived by his wife of 41 years, Susan (nee Lugar); son, Jeffrey M. Stroud of Valparaiso; grandson, Mason J. Stroud; brother, Robert (Diane) Stroud of AZ; brothers-in-law, Bud (Deb) Lugar, Mickey (Star) Lugar; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial visitation for Jim will be Friday, August 21, 2015 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Masonic Service at 11:45 a.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 W. Old Ridge Rd., Hobart. Memorial service will begin at Noon with Rev. Michael Cover officiating. Please call (219) 942-2109 or go online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com to extend online condolences.