JAMES EDWARD SHEERAN, Jr., age 88 of Merrillville, passed away at home on June 16, 2017 with his family at his bedside.

Survived by his wife of 63 years, “Mary” Jane; four children: Mary Sheeran of River Forest, IL, Timothy (Sharon Smith) Sheeran of Chesterton, Anne (Dan Zucker) Sheeran of Seattle, WA, and Rebecca Sheeran of Merrillville; three adored grandchildren: Kathleen Sheeran of Chicago, IL, Michael Zucker Sheeran and Jesse Zucker Sheeran of Seattle, WA; sisters-in law: Ann Kelley of Oak Park, IL, Margaret Balducci of New Carrollton, MD, and Patricia Kelley of Merna, IL. Preceded in death by his son, Christopher; parents, James and Veronica Sheeran, Sr; and sister, Veronica.

Born in Linden, NJ, the family moved to the west side of Chicago, but Jim always considered South Philadelphia, where he had many relatives, his true home. Jim graduated from St. Mel High School and Loyola University, where he was a member of the boxing team. He served in the Army during the Korean War.

After marriage, Jim worked for Texaco in Springfield, MO, then was transferred to Gary, IN. He later went into business for himself as an oil distributor, serving Northwest Indiana. Jim sold the business and with the help of his son and daughter, opened a service station and convenience store in Porter, IN, retiring in 2002.

Jim was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Merrillville. He was a member of the first parish council after it was established. Jim served as coordinator of parish cantors for many years. He was a tireless supporter of his children’s various activities…coaching, bandaging and encouraging.

A memorial mass will be held at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 5885 Harrison St., Merrillville on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at 10:00 am. with Rev. Jon Plavcan officiating. There will be an hour of visitation at church prior to mass. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to VNA Hospice of Valparaiso, IN (www.vnanwi.org) or SS. Peter & Paul Church. Interment in Holy Cross Cemetery, Merna, IL will be private. Arrangements by Pruzin Brothers Funeral Service, Merrillville.