Jim McKee, 61, grew up in Goshen, served as a city fireman, moved away and returned in the 1990s. Last November he was elected to the Goshen City Council representing the residents of District 1.
Occupation
I am the owner of Bosco’s Place, work at Sam’s Club and I am the Goshen City Councilman for District 1.
Explain a little about yourself
I am married to Angie (Miller) McKee and have three grown sons and grandchildren that are living in Goshen. My father, my three sons and a daughter-in-law were all in the military (Army, Navy and Air Force). I lived in Houston, Texas, for 12 years and then spent three years in Colorado Springs while working for Sam’s Club. I was employed as a Goshen city fireman in 1971 and was one of the six firemen that opened Station 3 on College Avenue.
Where did you grow up?
I am a Goshen native from the west side growing up on Dewey Avenue while being raised by my grandparents.
What schools did you attend?
I attended West Goshen Elementary, Whiteman Junior High School and Goshen High School (Class of 1969).
What is your fondest memory of Goshen?
Growing up in a small town. It used to be you knew everyone, life was slower and you never had to lock your doors. As kids we played inside the West Goshen Church of the Brethren. Back then it was never locked as times were much different. Pedaling to the local neighborhood grocery stores, Keims and Swiharts on Dewey Avenue.
Describe the essence of Goshen in your eyes
Goshen is no longer a small sleepy town, but one that continues to grow and expand its size to meet the needs of the people while still having a sense of “community,” although growth has at times been challenging.
What about Goshen would you like to see changed or improved?
I hope to see traffic improved all around town, but especially on Madison Street and the Kercher Road area. Most days you want to avoid the south side of town in the afternoons because of the traffic. I hope we can make improvements in the next four years.
What is Goshen’s best-kept secret?
For me it’s the Marian Hoogenboom Care House located behind the hospital. Through donations of labor and money we are able to provide cancer patients a place to stay while seeking treatment at the IU Health Center for Cancer Care at no cost to them. While Goshen residents do not benefit from this, I believe it tells people who do stay there from out of town how caring our community really is.
What has Goshen meant
to you over the years?
I left Goshen in 1978 for a new adventure. I returned in 1993 as the general manager of the Goshen Sam’s Club only planning on being here for a year or two. They say, “You can never go back,” but I did along with my children after they left the military. Everyone was very welcoming and I felt at home and glad to be back here.
Who We Are
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Jim McKee
WHO WE ARE PROFILE: Jim McKee
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