James "Jim" Werkheiser

James "Jim" Werkheiser, 81, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. Jim is survived by his loving children, Wendy Werkheiser and John Werkheiser; his cherished grandchildren, Bri Wagoner, Nat Werkheiser, Theresa White, Scott White, Jason Parsons, and Dustin Parsons; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Parker Wagoner, Jackson Wagoner, Lukas Wagoner and Brady Weaver. He also leaves behind many extended family members, dear friends, and a community forever touched by his kindness and generosity. Throughout his career, Jim worked in the computer industry, where his intelligence, dedication, and strong work ethic earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike. He embraced a field that evolved rapidly over the decades, adapting and growing with it until his retirement in 2013. Jim married the love of his life, Linda, in 1966. Together they built a life filled with love, adventure, and family. The young couple first settled in upstate New York, where they welcomed both of their children into the world. Their journey eventually took them to Valparaiso, Indiana, before they made their home in Lutherville, Maryland, where they spent many happy years raising their family and creating lifelong friendships. Together, Jim and Linda embraced every opportunity for adventure. They traveled the world, enjoying river cruises through Europe, caravanning across New Zealand, and exploring the beauty of Australia. Their greatest journeys, however, were always the ones they shared together. In 2013, they retired and made Bonita Springs, Florida, their home. Never ones to slow down, Jim and Linda turned their lifelong love of hospitality into a new dream. In 2018, they opened the Bonita Beach Balloon Bar & Grill, inspired by the welcoming restaurants and pubs they had discovered throughout their travels. More than just a restaurant, the Balloon became a reflection of their adventures, their generosity, and their belief that great food, good company, and genuine kindness bring people together. It remains a lasting testament to the life they built and the countless memories they created along the way. Jim embraced life with enthusiasm and enjoyed many hobbies throughout the years. He loved race car driving, singing with his barbershop quartet, shooting pool, and was known for his fiercely competitive spirit when it came to games. In recent years, one of his greatest joys was spending time with those he loved, playing Catan online with his family each evening and gathering weekly with friends for spirited games of bid euchre. Whether around a card table or across a computer screen, Jim cherished the laughter, camaraderie, and friendly competition that brought people together. Jim never needed to be the loudest person in the room. He was a man of few words, but every one of them carried meaning. He had a remarkable gift for knowing just what someone needed to hear, offering encouragement, comfort, or a simple perspective that somehow made everything feel a little lighter. His quiet strength, gentle nature, and steadfast love will be remembered far longer than any speech ever could. Jim's legacy lives on in the family he adored, the friendships he treasured, and the welcoming place he and Linda created together. Whether through a shared meal, a friendly game of cards, or a quiet word of encouragement, he made people feel at home. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who knew him. To sign his guest register or to leave online condolences please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

James "Jim" Werkheiser

March 2, 1945 - July 21, 2026