James A. "Jim" Derrickson , age 74 and a longtime resident of Elwood, passed away on Friday, Aug. 16, 2024 at Alexandria Healthcare Center after an extended illness.  He was born July 18, 1950 in Elwood, the son of Clara (Brown) Derrickson and the parents who raised him, James and Mary Derrickson.  Jim was raised in the Lutheran Church and was a 1969 graduate of Crown Point High School.  He worked in construction and home improvement most of his life working for himself as a siding applicator, Ray Green Construction, and Sears.  Jim retired in 2010 from Warner Body Co. in Noblesville where he worked in the shipping department for several years.

Jim met the love of his life, Debra J. (Call) Smith in 1982, and they shared 42 years of life together.  He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoyed fishing, arrowhead hunting, and especially riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle.  Jim was a fan of the Dallas Cowboys and NASCAR racing where Jeff Gordon was his favorite driver.  He and Debra enjoyed traveling and spending time with their family.  Jim will always be remembered as an easy-going person who was greatly loved by his family.

Jim's family includes his beloved companion, Debra Smith of Elwood; daughter, Shawnna Derrickson (Courtney) of Muncie; step-son, Matthew Leffert (Brook) of Elwood; 3 siblings, Cynthia Farrar of Illinois, Marge Staggs of Illinois, and Tom (Ginger) Derrickson of Lebanon; two grandchildren, Maddy A. Smith and Chloe B. Smith (Sean); daughter-in-law, Amy Noone-Smith of Elwood; beloved dogs, Bradley and Charlie; and several nieces and nephews.  Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Clara Derrickson; parents who raised him, James and Mary Derrickson; son, Scott Derrickson; step-son, Andrew B. Smith; and 3 siblings, Doug Derrickson, David Derrickson, and Jimmy Derrickson.

Jim's wishes were to be cremated.  His family will have a memorial gathering at a later date.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Elwood Animal Shelter to honor Jim's love of animals.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.copherfeslermay.com.