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James Ellsworth Obituary
James Robert Ellsworth, 84, of Holland, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, following a brave battle against cancer.
Jim was born in 1941 in Lafayette, Indiana, son of the late Robert F. and Laura E. (Schuster) Ellsworth. He graduated from Marian University with a degree in Economics, received his MBA from Indiana University, along with continued post-graduate studies at Rutgers University. Jim served in the Indiana National Guard as a Chaplain's Assistant. Starting as a teenager collecting coins from bank branches, Jim had an exceptional life-long career as a community banker. He was especially proud of the years spent with Centier Bank, helping grow the business over his decades-long tenure. He served as a Council member on the Valparaiso City Council, and was honored with the Sagamore of the Wabash award in 1998 for his extraordinary contributions to the State of Indiana by late Governor Frank O'Bannon.
His entire life, Jim was a craftsman and maker, an architect of tree forts and doll houses, an artisan of furniture and stained- glass windows, and eventually becoming an award-winning wood turner. Upon retirement, Jim and his dearly loved late wife Diana Ellsworth captained their boat for six months on The Great Loop - the continuous waterway that includes part of the Atlantic, Gulf Intracoastal Waterways, the Great Lakes, Canadian Heritage Canals, and the inland rivers of the Midwest. He was a dedicated volunteer, and a loud and proud Democrat. He loved playing bridge with his dear partner Mary Essling, researching strategies and traveling to tournaments. His biggest amusement was watching his grandchildren grow up, traveling around the country for their birthdays and graduations.
Loving father to Scott (Melissa) Ellsworth, Laura Ellsworth (Josh Chicoine), and Chris (Kristyn) Ellsworth; brother to Joyce (Steve) Brooke, David (Becky) Ellsworth, Debra (Pat) Hrdy, and Susan (Marvin) Reeves (deceased); cherished grandfather to Max, Zoe, Nina, Sylvie, Watson, Avery and Cora; and beloved partner to Mary Essling.
A funeral service at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1855 W. Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso, IN will be held on Thursday, January 22, at 10:00 AM CST, with visitation at 9:00 AM. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of James Ellsworth can be made to Habitat for Humanity.
Arrangements made by Dykes Funeral Home, Inc., Valparaiso IN, 219-462-3125.
Memories and Condolences
for James Ellsworth
Sponsored by The Times.
5 Entries
Kathleen Schenck
January 22, 2026
In high school Laura and I were attached at the hip and by association Scott and Stretch (Chris). Mr. Ellsworth always had his basement free with cold Pepsi in the fridge for us kids. He addressed me by my nickname only ("Schnook!") and smiled every time I came by. Not sure he knew when Laura and I were on the roof listening to Buffett, Lovett, Like it! He had a beautiful, welcoming home and yard in Forest Park with flowers and mature trees providing shade. My dad grew up in the house behind his. I miss those days, and he helped make them happen. He was a kind, joyful soul and I send big, big hugs to the family. With love, well, Schnook!
Sheena Marrell
January 21, 2026
I met Jim when we worked at Northern Indiana Bank and Trust Company and in later years our paths crossed again when we both worked at Centier Bank. He was an admired prominent leader and worked hard in our community in Valparaiso serving others. Sending my sincere condolences to his family.
Carol Highsmith
January 21, 2026
I have many good memories of Jim as we worked together at First National of Crown Point and then Centier Bank. I learned so much for him but we also shared good times too. Steve and I visited with he and Mary several times in Florida. Sending our thoughts and prayers to the family
Kevin Wallace
January 19, 2026
Jim and Mary, celebrating Mary's 80th birthday in Grand Rapids Michigan. Jim planned the surprise party for Mary.
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Ann Marie and Kevin Wallace
January 19, 2026
Jim and Mary hosted us in their Florida residence several times. He was a gracious host and great cook. We enjoyed playing cards with them and discussing a wide range of topics.
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Dykes Funeral Home, Inc.2305 North Campbell Street, Valparaiso, IN 46385
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