James L. Baumgartner 87, of Decatur, IN, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Adams Woodcrest. He was born in Decatur, Indiana on August 30, 1938, the son of the late Roy and Sarah “Betty” (Swygart) Baumgartner. On June 30, 1973, he married Connie Durr.
He was a member of Pleasant Dale Church of the Brethren. A 1957 graduate of Adams Central High School, he then went on to serve his country in the Army National Guard.
For over 40 years he was a foreman at Wayne Novelty. In 2002, he received the gift of a heart transplant and went back to work for Selking International for many years. He never knew a stranger and will be remembered for his quick-witted humor.
Jim loved to ride and rode motorcycles for over 60 years. He was a member of the former Gold Wing Road Riders Association.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Connie Baumgartner of Decatur; 3 children, Lisa (Corbin) Bultemeier of Decatur, Anthony (Gina) Baumgartner of Uniondale, and James Baumgartner Jr. of Roann; a brother, Gene Baumgartner of Decatur; a sister, Shirley Huss of Decatur; 8 grandchildren, Sally, James III, Toni, Taylor, Samantha, Carrington, Remington, and Lawton; 15 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Marilyn Barnes and a brother, Allen Baumgartner.
A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Haggard-Hirschy & Zelt Funeral Home, with visitation 3 hours prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Pastor Jay Carter will be officiating and burial will immediately follow in the Pleasant Dale Cemetery. Military Honors will be rendered by the American Legion Adams Post 43 Color Guard.
About the Author
