WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Rosaine “Ruck” Fern James, age 92, of Howe, IN passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Friday, September 27, 2024 at Thurston Woods Village in Sturgis. Mrs. James was born on November 25, 1931 in Muscatine, IA to Philip William and Sarah Jeraldine (Rosenberg) Stark.
In 1949, Ruck graduated from Muscatine High School in Muscatine, IA. She then continued her education at St. Luke Hospital in Davenport, IA where she obtained her degree and licensing to become a registered nurse. On December 18, 1955, she married the love of her life and husband of 59 years, Robert “Jess” R. James in Muscatine, IA.
For many years she served as a nurse at Dr. Mattox’s practice as well as lead LaGrange County Health Department nurse, both in LaGrange. Ruck was a founding member of Well Child Clinic and very selflessly operated both the LaGrange County and Noble County Clinics for over 20 years. She oversaw ensuring needful and less privileged individuals of obtaining proper medical care, treatments, and seeking physicians who would donate their services to the charity. She fought hard for her patients and never allowed anyone to go without proper care. Ruck had a true heart of gold and this shined as she dedicated her time to her community.
She was very family-oriented and her four children kept not only her heart full but her schedule full. Ruck enjoyed supporting her sons through and through by going to sporting events, musicals, and anything they were involved in. This also was a generational value she withheld as grandchildren and great-grandchildren were born. She never failed to not be active and loving in their lives. Ruck was known to be quite a cook and specialized in producing chocolate chip cookies as well as other tasty meals. She enjoyed horseback riding, running, and numerous vacations to Maui and Oregon. Ruck loved family events, entertaining guests, and hosting reunions.
Ruck’s heart was immeasurable and it was always in the right place. She loved her family, friends, and all the quality time at the lake. With “a bushel and a peck,” she will be missed dearly by those who knew her and loved her.
Survivors include:
Son, Michael Craig and Karen James of Howe.
Son, Daniel Scott and Irene James of Lincoln City, OR.
Son, Patrick Stark James of Chicago.
Son, Kelsey Robert James of Sturgis.
Grandson, Adam and Ashley James of Fort Wayne.
Grandson, Marcus James and Molly Bond of Denver.
Grandson, Keith McDowell of Kentucky.
Grandson, Tyler Judah James of Georgia.
2 Great-grandchildren, Lulie and Olsen James both of Fort Wayne.
Brother, Sidney Allen and Violet Stark of Coloma.
Ruck was preceded in death by both of her parents, her husband, brother, Edwin Harvey Stark, and sister, Miriam Elaine Ely, and a nephew, Curt Stark.
Cremation will take place upon Ruck’s final wishes and a private graveside service will be held at a later date at Riverside Cemetery in Howe.
Memorial donations may be directed to LaGrange County Hospice and or Gentiva Hospice of St. Joseph County.
Arrangements and care trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services of LaGrange.
