Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
James Edward Jorczak, of Leesburg, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026.
He passed peacefully in the loving care of Majestic Care of Goshen and Comfort 1 Hospice at the age of 88.
Jim was born on July 8, 1937, in Chicago, to Elizabeth “Betty” Rohrer and Edward Jorczak. He graduated from Marion High School in 1955 and earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Ball State University.
In 1958, Jim married Judy Gotschall, and they shared 67 years of marriage, having first been high school sweethearts. They had three children: Jeffrey, Jonathan and Jennifer. Jeff preceded him in death on Oct. 10, 2018. Jonathan (Debra Seal) live in Petaluma, Calif.; and their daughter, Katherine, lives in Monterey, Calif. Jennifer Martin lives in Warsaw with her daughter, Grace. Her other daughter, Emma, went to be with Jesus on June 19, 2009.
Jim’s unashamed love for his family was always evident.
Jim taught all levels of school, primarily in the field of art. He taught in South Miami, Fla.; Converse, Muncie, North Webster and Syracuse. He loved the challenge of reaching all students, and younger ones often referred to him as “Mr. Rogers.”
Jim’s love of golf led to his purchase of Indian Hills Golf Course on the south side of Tippecanoe Lake where he and his family worked and lived for 25 years.
Jim will be lovingly remembered by his wife, his son, his daughter-in-law, his daughter, granddaughters and his sisters, Barbara Shafer, of Indianapolis; and Cathy Queen, of Marion. Jim loved all of his family, including his sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, many nieces, nephews and friends.
There will be a private graveside service for the family on Thursday, Feb. 26 at Oakwood Cemetery in Warsaw. A visitation will be held on the same day at noon at First Baptist Church, 2819 Patterson Road, Warsaw, with a service following at 1 p.m., officiated by Pastor Steve Rahn.
Flowers may be delivered to the church on Thursday between 11 a.m. and noon.
Memorial donations can be made to First Baptist Church, 2819 Patterson Drive, Warsaw, IN 46582. Donation envelopes will be provided at the service. For additional information, please visit www.churchfuneralsdirect.com.
