James Richard McKenzie

Muncie- James R McKenzie, 52, resident of Muncie, died of heart surgery complications, Monday evening, April 6, 2020 at Ascension St Vincent Heart Center in Carmel, IN. James suffered from a succession of heart and lungs issues following his cancer treatments as a teenager. He fought courageously most of his life not only to survive but to live a happy life and raise his two sons.

James was born in Muncie, Indiana, December 19, 1967, the son of James Marshall McKenzie and Mary Ann (Blackerby) McKenzie. He was a 1987 graduate of Wapahani High School where he did some wrestling and studied robotics at the Ivy Tech Community College. He worked at H&N Machine shop in Muncie for several years, and at Hoosier Park Casino (now known as Caesars Entertainment or Harrahs Casino) in Anderson for almost 20 years. Computers and technology have always been a part of his work and his passion. He was a skilled technician, primarily self-taught, always learning new things in technology. He was also an amazingly kind person. James could easily assemble a computer from scratch and frequently helped friends and family fix their computer issues. He was well respected for his helpful nature and knowledge by his co-workers and everyone who got to know him. He loved his family and was a great husband, son, brother and father. His two sons were the light of his life. He cheered on their success in school and was hoping they can continue their education.

Survivors include his wife of 16 years, Alena McKenzie; their two sons Aiden (14) and Dylan (8); mother and father Mary Ann McKenzie and James Marshall McKenzie of Muncie; sister Jennifer McKenzie; niece and nephew Samantha Eytchison and Jacob Eytchison; as well as his aunts, uncles, and cousins.

James was preceded in death by his grandparents Pauline and Haskell McKenzie, Rosemary Reese, and Uncle Wally.

Due to COVID-19 and current social distancing mandates, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his sons’ college funds via ugift529.com: Aiden C McKenzie fund code D4Z-57U and Dylan Z McKenzie fund code 265-N1H.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.elmridgefuneralhome.com.