James (Jim or "Izzy") Warren Isbell, 81 of Angola, Indiana, but most recently Mishawaka, died at 8:55 pm, Tuesday, October 22, 2013 in Hospice House of South Bend after suffering a stroke.

Born in Steuben County, Indiana, Jim is the son of Robert L. and Annie (Davis) Isbell, both have gone home to be with The Lord. After many moves Jim's family finally settled in Elkhart, where Jim graduated from Elkhart High School in 1951. Jim proudly served in the US Navy as a radio man aboard the USS Missouri during the Korean War. After returning, he attended Valparaiso University and married Nancy (Lantz) of Elkhart in 1959. He raised his family in South Bend and worked many different jobs in the South Bend/Elkhart area. He retired from Miles Laboratory.

Jim was an avid long distance runner, starting in the 70's when he took up running again after having been a star high school athlete. He enjoyed running more than almost anything in life. Jim ran 30 full marathons over the years and dozens of 10K's. He was an original member of the Indiana Striders running club in the 70's back before it was a popular sport. He never stopped telling jokes. He had one for every occasion! He relished his role as a grandpa, doting on his grandkids. They all knew they were loved by their Grandpa Jim. Jim was a guy who would give you the last shirt off his back. He never knew a stranger. If he thought you needed something he would find a way to get it. He always made time for his kids and would do anything for them.

Jim is survived by two sons Robert "Lance" Isbell of Tekonsha, MI, Todd Isbell of Elkhart, IN, three daughters: Elizabeth McCombs of Roseland, IN, Sue Morgan (Fred) of Wilmore, KY, and Jennifer Isbell, Wilmore, KY; eight grandchildren, David Brewington, Elizabeth Brewington, Maddie Morgan, Neomi Middleton-Brown, Andrew Isbell, Olivia Isbell and Jacob McCombs. He is also survived by a brother, Stephen Isbell of Indianapolis and his ex-wife, Nancy Isbell of Elkhart.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Roberta Palin, Sue Ellen Unzen and his son Andrew Isbell in 1978.

Jim was a member of Salem Center Presbyterian Church in Hudson, IN. He was loved dearly by his friends in the congregation. He moved to Mishawaka from Angola, IN, where he had lived for many years. Jim was a member of the former VFW Post 624, Roseland and American Legion Post 161, Mishawaka.

A time for gathering will be held from 5:00-8:00 pm, Friday, October 25, 2013 in Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 10776 McKinley Highway, Osceola. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am, Saturday, October 26, 2013 in the funeral home.