ROCHESTER – James “Jim” R. Bair, 98, Wynnfield Crossing, Rochester, passed away at 8 a.m. May 5, 2014, at his residence. He was born April 8, 1916, in Peru, the treasured son of George Frank and Martha Linebeck Bair. On June 14, 1941, in Seymour, he married the love of his life, Margaret O. Murphy Bair, who died June 7, 2009. During his childhood the family moved to near Fort Wayne. In 1934, he graduated from Fort Wayne Southside High School, going on to study at Purdue University. He was married for nearly 68 years. From their union came two wonderful sons, Tom and Steve. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of four grandchildren and a great-grandchild. Less than two years after his marriage on Jan. 19, 1943, he answered the call of patriotism serving the country during World War II with the United States Army. During his stint he was decorated with the American Theatre Ribbon, EAME Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and Victory Medal of World War II. A Warsaw resident for well over a half century, as a Warsaw businessman he co-owned the NAPA Dealership until he retired several years ago. As a loyal and devoted member of the Warsaw First Presbyterian Church, he served as deacon, elder and trustee. Other memberships include the Warsaw Shrine Club, the Masonic Lodge where he attained 32nd-degree mason and the Scottish Rite of Fort Wayne. Left to cherish Jim’s memory are two sons, Tom (and spouse Sue) Bair, Rochester, and Steven R. (and spouse Pam) Bair, Cumming, Ga.; four grandchildren: Chris (and Kerri) Bair, Orlando; Matt Bair, Indianapolis; Jill (and spouse Steve) Longfellow, Estero, Fla.; Tessa Bair, Indianapolis; and a great-granddaughter, Alexis Jade. Also preceeding him in death are his parents and his sister, Phyllis, during infancy. The family will hold a private family celebration honoring his memory. The Good Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. ***** Memorials in lieu of flowers to Gentiva Hospice, 1476 W. 18th Street, Rochester, IN 46975. Condolences may be sent via www.goodfamilyfh.com
