James Richard Baldauf

James Richard Baldauf, 68 of Bogue Chitto, passed away August 4th. He was born September 10, 1951 in East Chicago, IN, the third of five children to Charles James and Betty Baldauf. Jim, as he came to be known, grew up in Lake Station where he enjoyed fishing. The son of a firefighter, he learned to do many things growing up which served him well in life as a "jack of all trades". Jim worked and retired as a steel worker most of his adult life. He is remembered as a "matter of fact" kind of guy that regarded family as most important in life. He loved his animals and to fish in his spare time. Among his animal family was a turtle that took up residence in a pond he was building. Jim would ride his tractor down to feed it every day. It didn't take long before the turtle knew the sound of the tractor coming and would meet him in anticipation of the treat. Jim was a simply awesome dad that was always there when needed. On many occasions, he assisted his daughter with minor car repairs and other things via Facetime calls when he couldn't be there in person. An independent guy that enjoyed working in his yard, Jim will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded by his parents, Charles J. & Betty Baldauf and his loving wife Debra Tuttle Baldauf. Left to cherish his memories are: his daughter Kim Tuttle and son Richard Baldauf, Jr., both of Biloxi, with his son Jason Baldauf (Jennifer) of Portage, IN; a son-in-law, Brian Null, also of Biloxi; siblings Kristine Baldauf of Plymouth, IN, Joseph Baldauf of Crystal Lake, IN, and David (Elaine) Baldauf of Lake Station, IN. Jim leaves a legacy of seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, along with many extended family and friends through the years. His final wishes were to be cremated, which his family is honoring. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Baldauf family in their time of need, asking everyone to keep them lifted up in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.