Jimmy "Jim" K. Messer

Jimmy "Jim" Kelly Messer, a dedicated husband, loving father, Papa, and respected craftsman, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was 78.

Born on February 14, 1947, Jimmy was the son of the late Curtis and Pearl Messer. From 1968-1970, Jimmy served in the U.S. Army, spending a year deployed in Vietnam. For many years, he was a skilled welder and pipe fitter at the BP/Amoco oil refinery in Whiting, Indiana, where his hard work and commitment were well-known.

Jimmy was a true outdoorsman whose greatest pleasures included fishing and hunting. He enjoyed the quiet solitude of nature, but he was equally at home tinkering in the garage, working on cars, or simply being outside. Known for his unwavering work ethic, Jimmy was the kind of man who would do anything for anyone. This generous spirit was balanced by a stubborn streak that his family and friends will fondly remember.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Deborah Messer, and their children: his daughter, Tera Borrero (Edwin), and his son, Kevin Messer. He will also be dearly missed by his grandchildren, Madison and Mason Borrero.

Jimmy is survived by his sister, Joyce Price, and sister-in-law, Roberta Messer, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Pearl Messer, and his brothers, Herbert and Gregory Messer.

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM (CT) at Brook United Methodist Church Hall, with service immediately to follow. A private graveside service will be held another day at Memory Lane Memorial Park in Crown Point, IN.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jimmy’s memory to the Brook United Methodist Church.