William R. "Bill" James, 68, of  Ft. Wayne, Indiana, formerly of Defiance,  passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2017 at Van Wert County Hospital.   
  
He was born on March 6, 1949 to Romie and Rosemarie (Bower) James in Toledo, Ohio. Bill served our country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He  worked at General Motors in Defiance, retiring in 1997. He enjoyed painting, drawing, motorcycles, karate, and was a big fan of the Cleveland Browns, Cavs, and Indians.
  
Bill is survived by his daughter, Tonya (Gary) Huss of Oakwood, son, Justin James of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, three grandchildren; Tyler, Garrett, and Sophia, brother, Dennis (Susie) James, and fiance, Tylene Underwood. 
  
He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Vicki.
  
Visitation will be held from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Wednesday, October 4, 2017 at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 pm on Wednesday at Schaffer Funeral Home, with Deb Miller officiating.  Burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery, with graveside military rites accorded by VFW #3360.
  
Memorials are suggested to Wounded Warriors. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.