John E. James, 58, of Lafayette, passed away on Sunday, April 2, 2023, at IU Health Arnett Hospital with his family by his side. He was born December 15, 1964, in Lafayette, to the late Michael and Joanne (Bloom) James.
John graduated from Lafayette Jefferson High School in 1983 and after graduation started working alongside his dad at Lafayette Auto Supply. John helped grow the Lafayette Auto Supply business, and after his father’s passing in 2008 John became president of Lafayette Auto Supply. During his years in the business, he grew the one store business into multiple store locations, and a distribution center in Lafayette, with the help of family and dedicated employees.
In 1989 John married Elizabeth Miller at St. Boniface Church and they enjoyed 34 wonderful years together. They have three children, John Jr., David, and Alexis. They enjoyed traveling and spending time with friends and family. John enjoyed his car collection of Camaros and Corvettes and enjoyed driving them in his spare time. John took great pride in his home and yard. John loved the cubs, his dogs, listening to all types of music, and most of all loved spending time with his children.
Surviving along with his wife are his children John E. James, Jr., David H. James, Alexis G. James, all of Lafayette. Also surviving are his brothers Patrick M. (Lori) James of Lafayette and Paul A. James of Chesterton.
Visitation will be from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Monday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd. Service will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at Soller-Baker Lafayette. Interment will be at St. Boniface Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association in John’s memory.