Obituary of John Russell Hodges

John Russell Hodges of Bedford, Indiana died on October 23, 2024. He was born November 7, 1928, to Ollie R. and Frances M. (Foster) Hodges. He is survived by his loving wife Barbara Ann (Gilstrap) Hodges. Also surviving are children William (Bill and Amy) of Lafayette, Karen (Kevin) Ohrenberger of Hillsborough, North Carolina, and Pamela (Brent) Crum of Avon. He also leaves eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Sister-in-law Myra Lou Gilstrap and brother Tom Hodges of Santa Rosa, California also survive. John was one of seven siblings and was predeceased by Mildred Long Kimbley, Harold, Mary Gilstrap, Gerald Eugene (Gene), and Harry. John was a graduate of the Shawswick High School class of 1947, and earned a Bachelor’s degree from Purdue University in 1951. He and Barbara were married for 72 years and John was drafted into the Army two months after their December 21, 1951 wedding. He was proud of his Dairy Husbandry degree from Purdue, and because of his chemistry background, the Army placed him in chemical warfare training. He became a Sergeant of a munitions supply just south of the 38th parallel, now the demilitarized zone, in Korea. He was awarded a Bronze Ribbon and three Bronze Service Medals, the UN Service Medal, and a National Defense Medal. After serving overseas for 16 months, he returned to the states. Most who knew him, will remember John from his work as Superintendent of the Feldun Purdue Ag Center just west of Bedford, and for his many civic responsibilities. He worked for Purdue University most of his career, first at the Davis Farm in Farmland before moving to the Feldun Purdue Farm and finishing his long career there. Before technology began automatically recording the weather, John was tasked with calling the National Weather Service early each morning to report weather conditions in the Bedford area. One of the many accomplishments that he was proud of was the building of the bull test station that served farmers in several states. Community organizations that he served include the Cattlemen’s Association, Rotary, and the 4-H Board of Directors. John enjoyed fishing in his retirement, especially if he could take grandkids. He also loved watching Purdue basketball and football. As a grandfather, he was famous for giving ‘bone-cracker’ hugs. John was a long-time member of the Central Church of Christ where he served as a deacon for many years. He will be remembered for his willingness to serve wherever needed and for his wonderful laugh and love of telling stories from his childhood. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 pm on Monday, October 28th in the Elmwood Chapel of the Day & Carter Mortuary followed by a private committal at Pinhook Cemetery. Military rites will be accorded by members of Gillen Post #33 American Legion. Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the hour of service on Monday at the Day & Carter Mortuary. Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.