James Edward "Pooch" Rodeffer, 93, of rural Stronghurst, Illinois, passed away at 3:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at his home.

Mr. Rodeffer was born August 28, 1931 the son of James Russell and Era May (Smith) Rodeffer. On August 30, 1952 he married Betty LaVerna Wetterling in Burlington, Iowa. She preceded him in death March 15, 2009.

He began farming at a young age and was a graduate of LaHarpe High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and was a Korean War Veteran. After returning home from the war, he continued farming. He loved all aspects of farming, from running equipment, raising Paint Horses and antique tractors. He was a member of the American Paint Horse Association and a member and past Chairman of the Lamoine Trails Saddle Club in Macomb, Illinois.

Survivors include one granddaughter: Melissa Walker of Fort Madison, Iowa; three great-grandchildren and numerous extended family members.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by one son: Randall Rodeffer; two sisters: Lucille Smith and Mary Rodeffer and four brothers: Bill, Bob, Charles and Dick Rodeffer.

The funeral service for Mr. Rodeffer will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 17, 2025 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe. Burial will be in the Terre Haute Cemetery, Terre Haute, Illinois. No visitation is planned.

A luncheon will be held following the services.

A memorial fund has been established for the LaHarpe Ambulance Service. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit Pooch's obituary banksandbeals.com.