New Richmond – James Herman Foster, age 78, of New Richmond, died at 1:47 a.m. Saturday, May 20, 2017 in his home following a lengthy illness. He was born in Holton, KS, March 1, 1939 to the late James Milton and Martha Elizabeth Meaike Foster. He married Earlene Bernice Powers on April 7, 1959 in Attica and she survives.

Jim was a 1957 graduate of Richland Township High School and served six years with the Indiana National Guard and one year active duty in the Army. Jim received an AS degree from Indianapolis Technical Institute and was a 'Certified Zenith Technician'. Along with his wife they owned and operated Advance Electronics in Wingate for over 40 years.

Music was a large part of Jim's life. He could proficiently play piano, violin, guitar and banjo. He was self taught and 'played by ear'! He performed in nursing homes and churches with his sisters, brother, daughters and grandson. 'He was the best Dad in the world', a good listener, an encourager, a gentle caring spirit, a problem solver and a 'True Believer'! He loved his family and grandchildren.

Surviving along with his wife Earlene, are: four daughters; Cindy Westbury of New Richmond, Brenda (Brian) Fox of Rensselaer, Jamie (Gary) Wagner of Beloit, WI, and Sandra (Mark) Frantz of Lafayette. Grandchildren: Brandie, Angela, Matthew, Brit, Giff, Evan, Christopher, Megan Corey and a great-granddaughter Allyson. Also surviving: a brother Roger (Sue) Foster of Wallace; sisters, Helen Grimes of Crawfordsville, Georgetta (Charles) Starnes of Lake Holiday, Patricia (Thomas) Crowder of Hillsboro, Judith (Donald ) Leeke of Minnesota, Susan (Larry) Dalton of Rossville and Salli Keeler of Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Robert.

Visitation hours are 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 24, 2017 at Family and Friends Funeral Home of Wingate, with funeral services beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Owen Mason officiating. Burial will follow in Wallace Lutheran Cemetery. To leave a condolence or share a memory, visit us at www.familyandfriendsfh.com