James R. "Jimmy" Fouch, Jr.

James R. "Jimmy" Fouch, Jr. passed away peacefully in his home on January 9, 2024. Born in Lafayette, IN, on June 8, 1949, he was the beloved son of James R. Fouch, Sr. and Barbara Fouch. He is survived by his cherished wife, Linda Fouch, his daughter, Lainey Groll (Logan), his loving family; brother, Michael Fouch (Mary), and five sisters: Diana Creasser (Tom), Vicki Perry, Robyn Pollom, Leslie Weisenbach (Mike), and Kelli Limbach (Chris). He also leaves behind his stepsons: Scott Wyland (Gina), and Stephen Wyland (Darla); beautiful grandchildren and great-grandchildren; stepmother, Carol McLay, and a whole host of beautiful nieces and nephews.

After high school Jim proudly served his country in the US Navy, and remained very patriotic, loving the red, white, and blue.

Somewhere after the military and prior to law enforcement, Jim had pursued a short short-lived career as "The Masked Avenger" in the WWE; the stories were endless.

Jim had a distinguished career that spanned several decades and included various roles within the law enforcement community. He dedicated over twenty years to the Lawrence Police Department, where he served as a Detective in the sex crimes/adult protective services division. Jim's commitment to justice led him to become a PPCT Defensive Tactics Instructor, imparting his skills to fellow officers.

Following his retirement from the Lawrence Police Department in 2000 as a Detective Sergeant, Jim continued to serve the community by joining the Whitestown Police Department, at his achieved rank of Major, before retiring in 2011.

Jim's desire to make a positive impact extended beyond law enforcement. In 2010, he embarked on a new venture as the owner and principal of a small insurance agency, JLF Associates, alongside his wife and partner Linda. Together they built a successful business that catered to their client's needs with dedication and compassion.

A lifelong learner, Jim pursued higher education and earned degrees from Vincennes University and Indiana Wesleyan University where he graduated magna cum laude. He further honed his skills at Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.

Jimmy somehow along the way in February of 1991 was given a certificate from the Commonwealth of Kentucky Governor Wallace G. Wilkinson commissioned as "A Kentucky Colonel" thus attaining the nickname "The Colonel" by members of the Lawrence Police Department, and his never-ending love of KFC for dinner.

Jim not only excelled professionally but also embraced various fraternal organizations throughout his life. In 1975, he became a member of the Mystic Circle #685 Free & Accepted Masons and the Nobles Of The Mystic Shrine Murat Temple, enriching his life through shared values and camaraderie. Jim was also involved in Lawrence Lodge #159 Fraternal Order Of Police, where he fostered meaningful connections with fellow law enforcement officers.

Beyond his accomplished career and community involvement, Jim will be remembered for his vibrant personality. While he possessed a strong exterior and a boisterous nature, those who knew him closely understood that he had a heart of gold and a tender side that was reserved for those dear to him. Jim possessed an incredible sense of humor that could brighten any room, and his kind and welcoming ways put others at ease.

Jim's greatest joy in life was spending time with his loved ones. He adored his grandchildren, who held a special place in his heart. Jim also treasured moments spent alone with Linda, his devoted wife, whose love accompanied him throughout their beautiful journey together.

To honor the memory of James R. Fouch, Jr., a visitation will be held on January 17, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Flanner Buchanan - Speedway located at 2950 North High School Road in Indianapolis, IN. Following the visitation, a memorial service will take place from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM, with a small celebration of his life in the Family Gathering room directly behind the same location after the service.  

Jim's legacy lives on through his surviving family members and friends. "Papaw Jim" is survived by seven grandchildren: Whitney, Sam, Cameron, Megan, Stephanie, Mitchell (Alisha), and Madison (Mike); as well as eight great-grandchildren: Brooklynn, Jayden, Kaiden, Malacai, Silas, Kynsley, Rylann, Haidyn.

In addition to his immediate family, "Jimmy" is remembered by his late brothers-in-law Russ Perry and Dan Pollom. Their presence in his life brought him much joy and laughter.

Jim's legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched. His selfless dedication to serving others, both within and beyond his professional responsibilities, serves as an inspiration to us all. May we remember him for the impact he made, the love he shared, and the laughter he brought into our lives.