ROCHELLE – James A. “Jim” Steder, 68, of Rochelle, passed away peacefully Sunday, Sept. 30, 2012, at his home, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

He was born Oct. 4, 1943, in Amboy, to Paul and Pauline (Schauer) Steder. Jim married Bonnie J. Schabacker on March 20, 1964, in Rochelle.

Jim graduated from Rochelle Township High School in 1961. He then went on to complete an automotive trade program in Nebraska. Jim spent the next 50 years building, repairing and customizing automobiles. He began working for Gene Thornton at the age of 15, and in 1983 purchased Thornton’s Body Shop. He owned and operated the family business until 2009.