Donor Highlight — James & LaMoine Bledsoe Legacy Fund
Jan Bledsoe Viehweg and Jeffrey Bledsoe are pleased to announce the establishment of a legacy fund at the Steuben County Community Foundation, a tribute to their parents, James and LaMoine Bledsoe. Rooted in this community their entire lives, the Bledsoes dedicated themselves to making their corner of the world a place for all kinds of “fun under the sun!”
The legacy fund aims to carry forward their parents’ spirit by supporting initiatives in Steuben County that enhance the quality of lake life through conservation, hospitality, and tourism. Bledsoe’s Beach, a cherished local landmark since 1919, began as a lively dance hall and swimming beach. Over the years, it blossomed into a multifaceted destination, featuring a hotel, dining room, both 9-hole and mini golf courses, a trailer park, cocktail lounge, snack bar, gift shops, arcade, rental cottages, and a basketball camp. Even a corner bait shop and donut stand found their home on Bledsoe’s property. Unfortunately, a devastating fire in September 1980 altered much of the footprint and amenities, but the basketball camp remained onsite until 1987, then relocated to college campuses in the region.
Photo of James & LaMoine Bledsoe
Reflecting on their parents’ legacy, Jan notes, “Our parents’ life’s work was all about providing a place where lifelong memories were made—whether it was dancing, swimming, playing basketball, or enjoying an ice cream cone. We take immense pride in their contributions to this special community.”
Jim Bledsoe, who passed away unexpectedly in March 1980, was a pillar of the community during his brief 46 years. A proud graduate of Angola High School, he went on to play basketball and earned degrees in business and accounting from Tri-State College. His professional career as a realtor, resort owner, and basketball camp partner was paralleled by his dedication to public service; he was elected to the County Council and served multiple terms as President, alongside active roles in the Rotary and Shrine Clubs and the Masonic Lodge. Jim avidly encouraged his kids to pursue both artistic and athletic endeavors, never missing a performance or a game.
Jeff recalls, “Through his business savvy and commitment to service, he taught us to always leave a place better than we found it.”
LaMoine Bressler Bledsoe, a proud Fremont Eagle, made her mark as the editor of her school paper and Drum Major of the band. After a stint at Fort Wayne’s WKJG radio station, she returned to Steuben County and began working as a waitress at the Harbour House Hotel at Bledsoe’s Beach—where she rented a room from her future mother-in-law. LaMoine married James Bledsoe on October 11, 1959 and while raising their two children, she helped Jim run the family resort until his death. LaMoine continued as the camp secretary for the Hoosier/McCracken Basketball Camp, serving for 28 years until her retirement in 2001.
Living on Lake James brought LaMoine immense joy. She loved spending time on her deck, taking in the sights and sounds of “Channel TV”—the lively boat traffic between James and Jimmerson lakes. In 2011, she reveled in her honorary role as the Grand Marshal of the Lake James Association Boat Parade. When not enjoying lake life, LaMoine indulged her hobbies of dining out and shopping, always on the lookout for the perfect sale. She cultivated countless friendships during her long life, continuously welcoming new people into her circle until her passing in 2023.
While Jan and Jeff both reside in Indianapolis, they still return to their home on the channel, where they share their love of lake life with their husbands and families. The remarkable qualities they inherited from Jim and LaMoine are always within reach—sharp wit, a strong work ethic, a deep commitment to family, and love for this beautiful community.
To see a pictorial history of Bledsoe’s Beach through vintage postcards, visit https://www.bledsoesbeach.com/.
Bledsoe’s Beach is featured in the book A History of Lake James by James Somers & Flaim C Cupp. That book is scheduled for a reprint in 2025. A digital version will be available as well. A link will be added here when it is received.