Clarence "Jim" James Lang

Clarence James “Jim” Lang, age 93 of Mishawaka went to be with the Lord on Monday, July 8, 2024. Jim was born February 28, 1931, in Mishawaka, Indiana to the late Clarence John and Leona (Chamberlin) Lang.  He was a graduate of Mishawaka High School, class of 1949.  Jim heard the call of his country and enlisted in the US Army, serving honorably during the Korean War era from 1951-1953. Following his time in the service, Jim married Marjorie Ward on November 27, 1954.  They celebrated more than 54 years of marriage before her passing in March of 2009.

Jim is survived by his daughter Ruth Elston of Mishawaka, three grandchildren, Jeff (Sahara) Elston, Dawn (Al Tyson III) Hall and Anthony Lang, and four great grandchildren, Courtney Elston, Richard Hall II, Wesley Lang, and Kory Lang.  He was preceded in death by his daughter Lois Smith and his sister Lois Lang.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 pm Friday, July 12, 2024, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home in Mishawaka. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the noon Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, with interment and military honors to follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola. Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home of Mishawaka has been entrusted with his care.

Jim was employed in the service department at Dodge Manufacturing until his retirement at the age of 55.  Following his retirement, he and Marge moved to Newaygo, Michigan where they built their home on what was nicknamed the “3-L Ranch” where they enjoyed snowmobiling through miles and miles of hills and trails. While living in Newaygo, they became very close friends with the Schultz family, a friendship that would last a lifetime. In 2004, Jim and Marge returned to Mishawaka where they ended up having 3 great sets of neighbors which then became dear friends.

Jim was an avid water skier and a founding member of the "Spray Riders of Mishawaka" water skiing club. His love for the water was evident to all who knew him, and he spent countless joyful hours slicing through the waves, always with a smile on his face. One of Jim's greatest joys was his dogs, and none held a more special place in his heart than Soki, his loyal companion in his later years. Jim was a dedicated sports fan, and followed Notre Dame and Chicago Bears football, as well as IU basketball. He was also an active member of the VFW Post 360.

True and lifelong friends along with Jack Lennox and Pete LaCava Jr., and L.G. Von Myers remained strong throughout his life. Their friendship was a testament to the enduring power of genuine connection.

More than anything else, Jim's faith was the cornerstone of his life. As a long-time and active member of Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Mishawaka, he was devout in his beliefs and found great comfort and community in his church.

In his memory, donations may be made to the Humane Society.  To light a virtual candle, share a story of Jim’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.