James Martin Killosky

Porter Resident, James “Jim” Killosky, Passes

James Martin Killosky, of Porter, Indiana, peacefully passed away on February 10, 2025, at the age of 69.

James was born on June 15, 1955, in Valparaiso, Indiana, and was raised in Liberty Township on land that was once part of his great-grandparents' farm. His roots in Liberty Township ran deep—he was a third-generation Killosky and a fourth-generation Laszlo on his mother’s side.

In 1982, James married Pam Adams. Together, they blended a loving family, welcoming Pam’s children, Doug and Christina Adams, and later having two children, James “JR” Killosky and Melissa Killosky-Stevens.

A proud 1973 graduate of Chesterton High School, James was affectionately known as “Fillmore,” a nickname inspired by the Fillmore the Bear cartoon character who played the trumpet—just like James. One of his friends thought he bore a resemblance to the character, and the name stuck. He also participated in Chesterton’s Great Egg Fight, a local tradition that involved throwing eggs at out-of-town cars. In preparation for one of these legendary battles, James and his friends bought eggs in Portage to avoid suspicion, only for the Portage Police Department to issue an alert about large egg purchases in Porter County. James’ own uncle, Chesterton Police Officer Jim Killosky, pulled them over in front of The Port Drive-In and confiscated their entire egg stash—much to the amusement of the restaurant’s diners.

During his senior year, James attended Michigan City Rogers High School’s auto mechanic vocational program, laying the foundation for his lifelong career. He started his auto mechanic career at Tollefson’s Shell Gas Station in Burns Harbor before opening Jim’s Auto in 1985 in Chesterton. Today, Jim’s Auto continues to thrive at its new location on U.S. Highway 20 in Burns Harbor, operated by JR Killosky and Doug Adams—a lasting testament to James’ hard work and dedication.

James’ love for cars went beyond fixing them. Teaming up with Tommy Straight, they purchased a 1970 Chevy Nova, which they transformed into a drag racing car. The duo competed in bracket racing at U.S. 30, U.S. 41, and Bunker Hill race tracks. Rumor has it that Tommy still owns the vehicle.

Beyond his passion for cars, James was an avid sports fan and bowler. He started bowling in the 1970s and was a proud Westchester Lanes Wednesday Night Men’s Bowling League member, where Jim’s Auto was a sponsor. He also coached multiple teams in the State Park Little League senior division. He remained a die-hard Chicago White Sox fan—a loyalty that some family and friends lovingly questioned.

James was an active American Legion Post 170 member and was well-known as one of the BINGO callers.

Above all, James had a big heart and was always willing to help those in need. His kindness and generosity will be deeply missed. No matter the challenge, he had a simple yet profound motto: "Walk it off." Whether it was a minor injury or a tough day, James believed in pushing forward and facing life with resilience.

James is survived by his children: James “JR” Killosky (Porter, IN), Melissa (Travis) Stevens (Amidon, ND), Douglas (Kimberly) Adams (Porter, IN), and Christina (Paul) Anderson (Chesterton, IN); his grandchildren: Christian, Trystan, and Lucian Stevens, John, Joscely, and Ashley Adams, and Zachery Novak.

He is also survived by his mother, Shirley Killosky (Boise, ID); his father’s significant other, Donna Cunningham (Chesterton, IN); his sister, Lisa (James) Holm (Boise, ID); and his brother Donny Killosky (Boise, ID).

James was preceded in death by his father, Alex Killosky; his aunts, Geraldine “Gerry” Ranalli, Marilyn Laszlo, Fay Popp, and Carolyn Prosser; his uncle, James Killosky; his paternal grandparents, Alexander and Alexandria Killosky; his maternal grandparents, Martin and Lois Laszlo; and his ex-wife, Pam Neely-Bass.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., with a reception immediately following at American Legion Post 170, located at 798 Wabash Ave, Chesterton, IN 46304.

Arrangements are entrusted to White-Love Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared on the Tribute Wall at:

https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/37281122/james-martin-killosky.

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