James J. Riese, of Merrillville, passed away at the age of 82 on April 6, 2025. Jim was a life long resident of the region, growing up in a large family and graduating from Dyer High School. After graduation, he went on to serve proudly in the U.S. Navy. Upon his release from the Navy, he embarked on a decades long career at Inland Steel, ultimately retiring out of the #3 Tandem Mill.

Outside of work, Jim could often be found out in the garden. He loved being outdoors, and enjoyed traveling and camping throughout all of the U.S. with his wife and family. He preferred to keep busy with woodworking and was known to be able to fix just about anything. Even after retirement, Jim went back to work as a custodian at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, where he was a long time member before it’s closing.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Amelia; and siblings: Leonard, Edward, Robert, and Marcia Jones.

He leaves to cherish his memory; his devoted wife, Linda; his beloved children: Deanna (Bob) Sum and Julie (John) Merkel; cherished grandchildren: Andy, Robby, Isaac, and John O.; loving siblings: John (Margaret), Michael (Patricia), Annette (David) Hall, Eleanor (Steve) Stanley, Peter (Linda); and in-laws: Nancy S. Riese, Edie Riese, Nancy Riese, and Arthur Jones; and many, many dear nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family and friends.

Visitation will be 10 AM until time of service at 1:00 PM on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel (7535 Taft Street, Merrillville, IN 46410). Interment with military honors to follow at Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville. For additional information, call 219-736-5840.