Rex Dale James, age 64, of Rensselaer passed away Sunday April 22, 2012 at his home with his loving family at his side.  He was born on October 30, 1947 in Rensselaer, the son of Charles & Dora Schultz James. Rex attended the Jasper County public schools.  On November 30, 1968, he married Margaret Daniels in the house where they now live.  Rex was a self employed contractor and operated Rex James construction.  He built over 40 homes during his career.  He enjoyed working alongside his only son, Tracy, for many of those years.  Beside his love and craftsmanship in woodworking, Rex loved his friends and family.  He shared his passion for hunting and fishing with his children and grandchildren and traveling with his family.  He had many near and dear friends who will greatly miss him. Rex is survived by his loving wife, Margaret, a daughter, Shannan Wagner and son, Tracy James, all of Rensselaer; sisters, Rita Joyce Chandler, Ft. Myers, FL, Jane Hullings, Linda (Jack) Fleming, Connie (Dave) Wilkerson, Cheryl (Mathew) Wright, Regina (Charles) Liebo, all of Rensselaer.  Sister-in-law, Patricia James of Morocco, Ind.  Two grandchildren, Dustan & Derek Wagner. Rex was preceded in death by his parents, two infant brothers and brother Paul James. Friends are invited to visit with the family on Thursday April 26, 2012 from 2 - 8 p.m. at the Jackson Funeral Chapel in Rensselaer.  Cremation services will follow and interment will be at Memory Gardens of Rensselaer at a later date.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Jasper County Hospital Home Healthcare & Hospice. See www.jacksonfuneral.com for online condolences