James P. Wittgren, 74, of DeMotte, and formerly of Dyer, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2014, in DeMotte.  James was born on Dec. 14, 1939, in Chicago, the son of Jack and Mary Ann (Eckert) Wittgren, both deceased.James served his country proudly in the United States Air Force.  He owned and operated Wittgren Jewelers in St. John, where he excelled as a master watch and clock maker.  James was a member and past master of the Kenwood Masonic Lodge #800, F & AM in Blue Island, Illinois.  James was also a member of the Lake County Indiana Sheriff's Department.  James was a private pilot and he enjoyed flying his Piper Airplane.  He also built and flew RC Aircraft.James is survived by his fiancé - Ruth Palm of DeMotte; children - James (Deona) Wittgren of Baytown, Texas, Andreas (Heidi) Wittgren of San Juan Capistrano, California, and Christine Ann (James) Bardsley, Cicero, Indiana; 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren; brother, Jack (Karron) Wittgren of Menominee, Michigan .A time of gathering for friends and family will take place at the Jackson Funeral Service in DeMotte, on Wednesday, Aug. 13, from 4 - 7 p.m.  A Memorial Service will follow at 7 p.m. at the Jackson Funeral Service, DeMotte.  Memorial contributions may be made to the .