INDIANAPOLIS — Jim Richter, Indianapolis' famed blind broom salesman, has died at the age of 84. Richter’s death was announced on his Facebook page by his son, Andy Richter.
Jim was a fixture at local post offices for decades. He learned his broom-building craft while attending the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
Jim gained attention in 2016 when the U.S. Postal Service informed him that he would no longer be able to sell his brooms outside its post offices.
After his story got out, Jim received support not only from his loyal customers, but from House Speaker Brian Bosma and Gov. Mike Pence as well.
The U.S. The Postal Service eventually reversed course and allowed Jim to sell his brooms on post office property again – with a few new restrictions.
Jim took the news in stride.
"In spite of all the controversies that we have in life, if you just ride them out to the end, it's like riding a storm, and there's a rainbow at the end of that storm," Jim said.
According to Leppert Mortuaries, visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. on Thursday, June 2nd at Leppert Mortuary – Nora Chapel.
Funeral services are at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 3rd at the mortuary.
-
Silver Alert issued for missing 29 year old woman from Mishawaka
Megan McGee was last seen at 8 a.m. wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans. Anyone with information should call 574-258-1678 or 911.Pence criticizes Trump's pick of RFK Jr. for HHS secretary
Former Vice President Mike Pence is calling on Senate Republicans to block Robert F. Kennedy from being confirmed as Health and Human Services secretary.2024 BOA Grand Nationals has most participants in its history
Bands of America Grand National Championships draws talent from across the country to Lucas Oil Stadium. This year, 113 bands are represented.Goo Goo Dolls to perform in Indianapolis in Aug. 2025
The Grammy-nominated rock band will be performing at Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, as part of their Summer Anthem Tour.