James Howard Amsler, 90, a lifelong resident of Rensselaer, passed away Monday, June 19, 2017 at George Ade Memorial Health Care Center in Brook. He was born in Rensselaer on January 21, 1927, the son of Ralph and Edna (Axen) Amsler.

He graduated from Rensselaer High School and served in the U.S. Army in Berlin during WWII. He was awarded a Victory Medal and Army of Occupation Medal for his service in Germany.

On February 7, 1949, in Watseka, Illinois Jim married the love of his life, Dorothy Jean (Watts) Amsler. They were married for 64 years. She preceded him in death on December 12, 2013.

Jim was a lifelong farmer and also worked as an inspector for the Indiana State Highway Department for several years. He was a proud member of the American Legion, VFW, and Masonic Lodge. He was affiliated with the First Christian Church of Rensselaer.

He is survived by his loving family: three children: Marvin (Gail) Amsler of Wisconsin, Cathleen (Robert) Brown of Rensselaer, and Donald Amsler of Rensselaer; one sister, Susan Smith of Rensselaer; one brother, John (Pauline) Amsler of Rensselaer; eight grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by: his wife, Dorothy Amsler; parents, Ralph and Edna Amsler; brother Ralph Amsler, Jr.; brother-in-law David Smith; sister-in-law Joyce Amsler; and daughter-in-law Brenda Amsler.

Graveside services with full military honors will be held on Saturday, July 1, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. (CDT) at Memory Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the cancer research organization of your choice. Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer is handling the arrangements. Share memories and condolences online at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.

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