Jimmy Lee Nightenhelser

Jimmy Lee Nightenhelser, age 86, of Arcadia, Indiana passed away Thursday, March 23, 2023 at his home.

He was born February 21, 1937 in Cicero, Indiana to Hubert and Pauline (Cruzan) Nightenhelser and grew up on a family farm in the Cicero area. He attended Jackson Central High School and graduated with the Class of 1955.

He married Peggy Doreen (Thomas) Nightenhelser on August 2, 1957 and they enjoyed family camping trips and traveling the country in their motorhome(s) for family vacations. Jim, as fondly known by friends and coworkers, worked for Delco Remy (Delphi Automotive) in Anderson, Indiana for 44 years. His time as a Tool and Die Maker Apprentice and Machine Builder formed his ultimate passion for a career in Machine Design where he excelled. Even though known as a humble man he quietly prided himself in his designs working the first time every time. Jim deservedly earned the respect and admiration of coworkers that ultimately built his design. He could always be counted on for his well thought out solutions to complex problems, which he was pleased to share with those that sought. While working full time at Remy Jim also farmed land where he taught his children the values of hard work, discipline and passion in everything they do. In his spare time working, farming, and raising five children, Jim coached baseball where his values were transferred to many fortunate boys and young men. Jim led by example in everything.

Family and friends knew Jim as a good and faithful man with a quiet strength that was seen by what was not said. He was described as a ballast on a boat. He was quiet. He was steady. He kept himself and others upright and provided weight and substance to the whole. Jim’s path was a calming path for all to follow. When sought, Jim’s guidance and advice was delivered with kindness and compassion. As a unique and valued father, grandfather, uncle, and friend his smile and wicked sharp sense of humor will be missed by everyone.

Jim is survived by his sons: Matt Nightenhelser of Atlanta, Indiana; Boyd (Tammy) Nightenhelser of New Palestine, Indiana; Stuart (Jan) Nightenhelser of Noblesville, Indiana; Jay (Kristina) Nightenhelser of Atlanta, Indiana and daughter: Dina (Dennis) Kalina of Vestal, New York; twelve (12) grandchildren: Maya, Megan, Mandi, Michaela, Brynn, Holland, Drake, Haleigh, Kaleb, Tanner, Addison, and Canyon; two (2) stepgranddaughters: Amanda and Holly; twelve (12) great-grandchildren; seven (7) step great-grandchildren; sisters Beth Ann (David) Leach and Jean (Mike) Hilton.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents and brother Dale Nightenhelser.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 31, 2023 at 1:00 P.M. at Bethel Lutheran Church 20650 Cumberland Road, Noblesville, Indiana 46062 with Pastor Douglas Gast officiating. A time of visitation will occur from 11:00 A.M. until the time of services at 1:00 P.M. Burial will follow at Arcadia Church of the Brethren cemetery 8989 East 266th St, Arcadia Indiana 46030 (1/2 mile east of State Road 19). Arrangements are entrusted to Hartley Funeral Homes, Cicero, Indiana where you may send condolences at https://www.hartleyfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society https://www.nationalmssociety.org.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jimmy Lee Nightenhelser, please visit our floral store.