James B. Dean, 85, of Valparaiso passed away on Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at home.  He was born on June 7, 1926 in Valparaiso to Ray and Lucy (Baker) Dean.  James was a graduate of Kemper Military School in 1944 and went on to serve in the Army during WWII.  He was co-owner of Valparaiso Plumbing Company that was founded by his grandfather in 1880. It remained in the family until it was sold in 1975. He then went on to become co-owner of Strongbow International Travel Service for almost 30 years with his wife, Dolores.  Jim had obtained a commercial pilot license and always enjoyed flying.  He was also a golf enthusiast.

On June 5, 1948 in Skokie, IL he married Dolores Johnson who survives along with 2 children: Connie Gott of Valparaiso and Kim (Marcy) Dean of CA, sister Lucille Dean of CA, 3 grandchildren: Sonya Storey, Michael Gott and Devon Dean, 2 great-grandchildren: Alexa Kudrak and Serena Storey, and many nieces and nephews.  James was preceded in death by his parents, brother John and his wife Jane, son-in-law Richard Gott and sister-in-law Charlotte Seligman and niece Christine Seligman.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 27 at 11 AM at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Rd. Valparaiso with Rev. Daniel Eggold officiating, visitation will be on Friday from 9 AM until the time of service at 11.  Burial to follow at Graceland Cemetery.