James David “Jim” Aydelotte of Linton, Indiana passed away on Monday, April 20, 2020, surrounded by his wife and Godchildren.

Born on August 30, 1954 in Linton, Jim graduated from Union High School in 1972 and Indiana State University in 1976 where he achieved Dean’s List all four years, was active in the Sigma Pi Fraternity, achieved numerous awards, and earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Geography and Geology. During his senior year at ISU, having been awarded a Fellowship in Mine Safety with Bucyrus-Erie, Jim developed a training manual for MSHA Safety & Electrical Certification and Training which went on to be used in mines across the country to train employees in dragline use.

Jim also enjoyed employment and received numerous accolades and certifications through his positions at Bucyrus-Erie, North Putnam School Corporation and Green County Economic Development until his retirement in 2008 as a guidance counselor where it all began at Union High School in Dugger, Indiana.

In his leisure time, Jim loved nothing more than entertaining and spending time boating and waterskiing with friends at his homes on Lake Harvey in Linton and Maumee in Dugger.

Jim was preceded in death by: his beloved grandparents, Helen and Harvey Grounds, Thomas and Flo Aydelotte; his father, Bill Aydelotte and his best friend and partner in crime, Rod Ranard. He is survived by: his wife, Susan Bachelle; mother, Deloris (Grounds) Aydelotte; brother, Rob (Charlotte) Aydelotte; Godchildren, Matt Ranard and Amanda Smith, and close friends, Melissa Ranard, Jodie Neilson, and Stephanie Hall.

Loved ones will remember Jim for his generous spirit, enthusiastic joke telling, extensive repertoire of movie and television quotes, and his advice; his students and all the young people in his life were always treated to Jim’s sage advice on life, love and economics. He found such joy in making sure his loved ones were always having a good time. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jim’s favorite witticism sums up how he wanted to be remembered, “I lived with a smile on my face and died with a smile on my face. Shed not one tear in my parting, but maybe think of me once in a while and smile.”

There will be no public visitation or services at this time. A celebration of life is planned at the lake for this summer.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bill Aydelotte Memorial Scholarship, C/O Greene County Foundation at 4513 W State Road 54, Bloomfield, IN 47424 or a Veteran’s organization of your choice.

The Aydelotte family entrusted all arrangements to Meng Family Funeral Homes, Anderson-Poindexter Chapel in Linton. Condolences and memories of Jim may be shared with the family online at www.andersonpoindexter.com.