James Albert Burris

James Albert Burris, 92, was ushered into the arms of Jesus on July 5, 2024. He has fought the good fight and he has finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:7-8.

James was born on January 4, 1932 to Mariam Mabel (Wire) Burris and Dr. Floyd Laverne Burris and grew up in Michigan City, IN. He had one brother, Stuart (Maggie) Burris.

James was a good man, honest and trustworthy, in all he did. He was a man of integrity.

He attended Elston High School in Michigan City where he was captain of the football team, Vice President of his graduating class, and King of the football dance. He was quiet but liked by everyone and had many good friends. James went on to graduate from Michigan State University. His family always said their family bled green and white, and they were so proud to be Spartans at heart. After graduation, he served his country as a Sergeant during the Korean War. He was proud of his service in the United States Army. He loved America!

On October 25, 1958, he married Donna Elaine Steepro of Michigan City. They had three children, Thomas Albert (Renee) Burris, Daniel Stuart (Leah, who passed away in 2016) Burris, and Amy Elaine Burris. James was blessed with five grandchildren, Amanda Burris, Andrea (Tim) Prikkel, Annie (Jake) Smith, Max Burris, and Hazel Burris; and three great-grandchildren, Jonah, Harmony, and Tommy James Lee Prikkel. James loved all his grandchildren and was thrilled when Max finally came along so he could watch him participate in football. He may not have always expressed it, but he loved each one and they brought him such joy.

He worked for Shell Oil in Indianapolis before returning home to La Porte to own and operate Longs Dairy. James was the most trusted milkman in La Porte and had keys to countless homes. He really enjoyed his job and the people he met. The family recalls stories of how he arranged the refrigerators in many homes and even helped hang draperies for someone. James was very loved and respected. His job afforded him the opportunity to be at all the swimming, baseball, and football games that his sons participated in. He never missed an event. James kept times at the swim meets and worked through plays on the football field. He was a good dad and a good man.

The family would like to thank James' caregivers, Lisa Wilson and Earl Callahan, for their time and years of faithful service.

A Private Graveside Service will take place at Greenwood Cemetery.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2024 at Evergreen Baptist Church, 2005 E. Coolspring Ave., Trail Creek, IN 46360. A time of visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Samaritans Purse; Wreaths Across America (https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/); Fried's Cat Shelter, 509 IN-212, Michigan City, IN 46360; Salvation Army; or Center Township Fire Department.

Psalm 61:2 From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. James firmly believed that Jesus was his rock and could, and would, bring him through all that crossed his path.

Condolences may be shared with the family on www.cutlercares.com.