James L. DeRudder, age 61 of Mt. Vernon, died early Friday morning January 4, 2013 at his home.

He was born April 9, 1951 at Blue Island, IL the son of John and Geraldine (Reedy) DeRudder.

He married Sue Mullins on May 5, 1973 at South Lyon, MI. 

Jim enjoyed working as a Senior Scientist for 29 years at G.E/SABIC in Mt. Vernon, conducting research that resulted in many useful patents. He was a proud graduate of the University of Michigan, having earned a Doctorate degree in Materials Engineering. Jim was a lifelong Wolverines fan, especially football.

At the moment of his decease, he was the current president of the Mt. Vernon Lions Club, where he was a member for over 20 years. Among many other things, Jim enjoyed gardening, taking great enjoyment in his herb gardens, reading, computers, and firearms collecting. He was also an avid cook. Jim loved his family and was affectionately known as “Gramps” by his grandchildren. He attended Crossroads Christian Church in Newburgh.

He is survived by his wife, Sue; two sons and daughter-in-law, David and Jessica DeRudder and Daniel DeRudder all of Newburgh; two daughters and son-in-law, Jennifer and Jeff Barnes of Mt. Vernon and Heather DeRudder of Evansville; eight grandchildren, Jayelle, Evie, J.J. and Tayla Barnes; Erial, Lilly, Zeke and YzzY DeRudder; one sister and brother-in-law, Edie and Roy King of Jacksonville, FL. He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Roger DeRudder. 

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday January 8, 2012 at the Stendeback Family Funeral Home at 1330 E. 4th St., Mt. Vernon with burial in Bellefontaine Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.