WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
James Paul Bontrager, age 83, of Constantine, passed away Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at his home. He was born July 28, 1942 in Elkhart, a son of Vernon and Ruth (Meyer) Bontrager. James graduated from Elkhart schools in 1960. Following graduation he joined the US Navy and was honorably discharged in 1963. James then attended Tri-State University, graduating with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business in1967.
He was employed by Holly Park Homes, and later transferred to Minnesota. He then married Ruth Anderson on October 12, 1973. They moved to Welcome, MN and in 1979 moved to Middlebury. James then worked in the manufactured housing business, retiring from Champion Homes (Fortune Homes).
In 2000 James and Ruth moved to Constantine to enjoy life on the St. Joseph River. He enjoyed fishing and woodworking, making items from furniture to Christmas decorations for family and friends.
Surviving are his wife Ruth Bontrager, daughter Paige (Troy) Comstock; son Joel (Amy) Bontrager; grandchildren Alex (Heidi) Huskey, Krista (Matt) Cain, Samantha, Hanna, Chloe, and Bohdy Botrager; great grandchildren Vivian Cain, Vera Cain, Luna May Bontrager, Ana Sol Marin Bontrager; and sister Janet (Bill) Beck. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Relatives and friends will be received Friday from 2 to 4 PM at Eley Funeral Home in Constantine. Religious services will immediately follow at 4:00. Memorial contributions may be made to Centrica Care Hospice. Please visit James’ memorial page to leave a message for his family at www.eleyfuneralhomescom.
