James Kelch

James (Jim) Warren Kelch of Whitestown, IN (previously from Metamora, IL) passed peacefully on Sept 14, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was an excellent husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Jim graduated from Richwoods High School in Peoria, Il. He worked 30 years for Caterpillar, retiring as a Systems Analyst. He spent 26 years as a volunteer EMT in Metamora, Il. Post retirement, he worked in OSF Saint Francis emergency room. He was married to his wife, Kathy,for 52 years. He enjoyed woodworking, hunting and fishing for grouper in the Gulf of Mexico. He leaves behind many dear friends from 9 years spent as a snowbird in Florida.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Donatus and Frances Eugenia (Atteberry) Kelch.

He is survived by his wife Kathy (Schaidle) Kelch; his children Kassandra (Kevin)Duncan and Kristina (Joseph) Lu; his grandchildren Ian, Ainsley, Heath, Rune and Penelope.

He leaves behind his siblings Helena (James) Douglas, Donatus (Patricia) Kelch, Ann (David) Tripp, Frances (David) Newman, William (Kathy) Kelch, Jacque (Douglas) Walton, Dorothy Reed and Douglas Kelch who will never forget his pranks and fun loving attitude.

A private service will be held at a later date with immediate family as they celebrate his love of deep sea fishing.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to ASPCA in his memory. Jim loved his little white dog, Maddie.