James D. Epley was born in Hanson, Kentucky, August 10, 1934. His family moved to South Bend, Indiana when he was very young. He lived in the family home and cared for his aging parents, Lowell and Elizabeth Epley until they passed away. James was a veteran and served in the Army during W.W.II where he was stationed in Germany, this was the only time he was ever away from home. He obtained his pilot license at the young age of twenty-two, and was a member of “The Army & Navy Union, U.S.A. Inc.” The Oldest Active Veterans’ Organization in America. James was an employee of Borden Inc. and worked in the freezer department and made ice cream until he retired after 25 years, Teamsters Local Union No. 364. He loved dogs, and had several dachshunds throughout his years. They were his extended family. He was also quite the fisherman he entered and won many competitions. He was never married “a confirmed bachelor” but, loved to share stories with his closest friends of many years at the local watering hole, “Joe’s Tavern & Catering”. His oldest brother, Leslie (Sonny) Epley passed away at a early age. James is survived by his sister-in-law, Beverly Epley of Syracuse, Indiana and his loving sister, Gloria Hancock of Valparaiso, Indiana as well as several nieces and nephews. There will be no visitation or services. James will be buried in Soutlawn Cemetery in South Bend. Kaniewski Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of James D. Epley, please visit our floral store.