James Dean Corning

James Dean Corning, 65, passed away on Monday, April 20, 2026, at his home in Brook, Indiana. surrounded by his family after his battle with lung cancer.

Jim was born August 1, 1960, at Porter County Hospital, to Donald and Sue (O’Brien) Corning. He was the second oldest of four boys, and onery as ever. During high school, he worked at White Sign in Shelby, Indiana, with his Dad. After graduating from North Newton High School, Class of 1979, Jim worked various jobs farming and driving truck.

He met the love of his life, Joy Marlene Minter, in the fall of 83’, and they married on June 23, 1984. Shortly after they married, they bought their first Semi and Jim started over the road pulling flatbed, van trailers, and tankers.

When Jim wasn’t behind the wheel of his truck, he found great joy in the outdoors, especially fishing with family and friends. He made many memorable trips to Lake Michigan for salmon fishing. He also had a deep love for hunting and took great pride in teaching both of his daughters the tradition.

Jim had a true need for speed and rarely missed an opportunity to attend racing events, from drag racing to dirt tracks to NASCAR. He even spent a few years racing dirt track himself. Known as a grill master, Jim loved hosting friends and showcasing his culinary talents.

Above all, Jim’s greatest joy in life was his grandchildren, who meant the world to him. Jim's contagious laugh and vibrant personality left a lasting impression on everyone he met. To know him was to love him. Truly one of a kind, Jim would often say that God broke the mold when He made him- and those who knew him would wholeheartedly agree.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Joy; daughters, Heather (Jr) Harrington, of Wolcott; Brittany (Jimmy) Lahrman, of Lafayette; grandchildren, Harliee, Lyle, Waylon, River, and Audrey; siblings, Ken (Johnie) Corning, Jeff (Anna) Corning, Daniel (Donna) Corning, Troy (Kristine) Stone, April (Dave) Benn, Jerry Templeton, Donnie (Lisa) Templeton; step-mother, Jacqueline Corning; and many nieces and nephews. Jim is preceded in death by his father, Donald Corning; mother, Sue O’Brien Corning; and son, William Linback Jr.

Please join us in celebrating Jim's life on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Chapel View Event Venue (formerly Highland Barn). Visitation will be from 12-5 PM (CT) with eulogy beginning around 5 P. After the service, we ask you to process with us as we bring Jim home and take him for his last ride.

Jim's care has been entrusted to Comfort Cremations, 674 N. 36th St., Lafayette, IN 47905 | (866) U-R-Loved | www.comfortcremations.net