James Kissling

James E. (Jim) Kissling – 5/21/1942 – 5/2/2023

It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Jim Kissling, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, great uncle, god-father, grandfather, and friend. He was loved and respected by those he knew for his compassion, decency, friendliness, humor, and his sometimes gruff, but always forthright, attitude.

Jim grew up in Holland, Indiana and went to Holland High School where he played varsity basketball and baseball, including a year on semi-pro area baseball team after graduation. After graduating high school, Jim joined the Army National Guard of Indiana, from which he was Honorably Discharged in 1964, followed by an Honorable Discharge from the U.S. Army in 1968.

Following his Honorable Discharge in 1964, Jim attended the Oakland City College and the University of Evansville where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. During his time at the University of Evansville, Jim was a dedicated member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity where he made many good friends that he remained in contact with for decades after graduation. However, most importantly, it was while at the Oakland City College, Jim met his college sweetheart, Jo, with whom enjoyed 55 years of marriage in Indianapolis where they raised their three children.

During his professional life, Jim was an accomplished salesman for Commerce Clearing House, a legal publication relied on by many large law firms. His straightforward demeanor and ability to connect with anyone were vital keys to his success, and he was fortunate to be able to retire early.

Jim had many hobbies including watching IU sports (especially basketball), spending time at the family campground near French Lick, Indiana, gardening, and annual family trips to see the St. Louis Cardinals for weekend home games. However, other than his family trips, Jim most especially enjoyed golf. It was this love of golf that led to his becoming a member of the men’s league at Iron Wood Golf Course and a second career as a starter and general grounds man there. He was so often present at the course and would be of such assistance so frequently that he was offered a job. (It didn’t hurt that free golf was included.) While a member of the men’s league and working at Iron Wood, he enjoyed annual golf trips to the Gulf Shores area with his friends from the men’s league for several years.

Loved ones that will miss Jim dearly are his son, Matthew Kissling, and daughter-in-law, Heather Schurz Kissling; his daughter, Jamie Kissling Gossett, and son-in law, Jeremy Gossett; son Jonathan Kissling; grandchildren, Layne Gossett and Jessie and Mariah Gossett, and great-grandchildren Decker and Asher. He will be further missed by his siblings Ray Kissling (and wife Janet), Clyde Kissling (and wife Sue), Doris Eck (and husband Jim), and Glen Kissling (and wife Connie), as well as innumerable nephews and nieces. Loved ones that preceded Jim and welcomed him in peace were his beloved wife Jo, father and mother, Jesse and Violet Kissling, and numerous golfing friends and fraternity brothers.

Jim was a dedicated husband, father, brother, and son. His family would like to thank their friends and family for their support. In addition, the family extends sincere thanks to the caregivers and staff at Central Indiana Cancer Center, Dr. Hillary Wu, and the caregivers at IU North Hospital for all the help and care they have provided.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask for donations in the name of James E. “Jim” Kissling to Riley’s Children’s Hospital and the American Legion Post 343, Holland, Indiana.