James D Boller, "JB"
Passed away on January 25, 2026
James D. “Jim” Boller, aka “JB”, age 85. Veteran of the U.S. Army. Late of St. John, Indiana, formerly of Lowell, Indiana, and prior to that, of Schererville, Indiana. Passed away January 25, 2026. Jim is survived by his daughter Nicole, granddaughter Erica, siblings: Warren (Sandra) Boller, Cheryl (Bruce Bokori) Boss, Danton (Suzanne) Boller, Valerie (David) Boller Kaluf, Cynthia Boller Biehl, David (Kali Rasala) Boller, and the late Maureen Boller Miller; nieces and nephews: Mark, Dana, Mika, Jorja, Ketti Rae, Chanté, Danton, Ryan, Jared, Jenna, Krysta, John, Maris, Jasmine, and Branden as well as many great nieces and great nephews. He is preceded by his parents Willard and Leila. Jim was a retired operating engineer and member of Union Local #150.
He was an avid pilot and private airplane owner. Professionally, Jim helped develop the growth of Lake County, Indiana for many decades. Jim participated in developing subdivisions in Lake County, Indiana. He founded and successfully operated a large excavating business, Boller Excavating, for decades. He helped build thousands of private residences, develop streets and infrastructure for growth. At times with numerous employees and several large pieces of excavating equipment. Initially with his father, Willard, and at times with his brother Danton, Jim also had projects of building homes with brother, Warren.
Jim was a talented man in many aspects, musically, artistically, and professionally. Jim was one of the very finest machine operators known in the greater Chicago area. He could dig a residential basement, level the yard and driveway to specification, with a large Cat machine, all without anyone needing a hand shovel to finalize the job. People were awestruck to see him work.
A true talent for driving, Jim owned many sports cars, motorcycles, motor boats, ATVs and his airplane as well. He particularly loved flying all over the United States. Jim enjoyed nature and his previous home in Lowell was nestled in the forest and had a private sandy beach as well. As a sportsman, he loved bowling, knife throwing, basketball and hand sports of many kinds. He also enjoyed playing the guitar and was musical. He was technical and inquisitive.
Jim was a natural teacher, and a caring mentor to many young boys and men throughout many years. He was a guy’s guy and caring mentor, teaching and guiding many souls through life's skills.
He also contributed to the community as a member of Jaycee’s and other endeavors.
Jim had a unique artistic flair and enjoyed inspiring others. He was a one-of-a-kind.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.