James Thomas Van Duyne

August 14, 1927 - August 15, 2016

James Thomas Van Duyne was born August 14, 1927, in Wilmington, IL to Cornelius and Amy (Sheldon) Van Duyne and died August 15, 2016, aged 89 years, in Grand Junction, CO at Mantey Heights Rehabilitation Center.

Jim attended Joliet Township HS class of 1945. He served in the Army 1946-1947. He graduated from Joliet Jr. College in 1949, and received his teaching degree from the University of Colorado Boulder in 1957. He was very proud to have been the drum major for the 1957 Orange Bowl - Colorado vs. Clemson.

Jim taught his first year in Fort Morgan, CO, and then went on to Grand Junction High School in Grand Junction, CO, where he made it his career teaching humanities until he retired.

Jim had a positive effect on his students, tried to instill history of the time of the Literature, and also blended music, art and politics with Literature. He was a dedicated professional and his influence outlived him!!

Jim was an avid patron of the arts and music and cherished his collection and friendship to the artist, Paul Pletka. Paul was not only a student but a friend who became a famous artist. Jim traveled to many of Paul's Art Shows and always came away with pride in Pauls' accomplishments.

His summer travels to Italy and the friends, pictures and multitude of stories he brought back, were among his greatest joys.

He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Also surviving are his friends from Colorado who became as close as family, Sue, Keri and Andy Moon, Ruth Chenoweth, Mary Vaughn and caretakers, Pat Seiler and Vickie Pologar.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Patricia (Robert) Jarman, Dorothy ""Jean"" Van Duyne, and Barbara (James) Caldwell and also an extremely special friend, Bob Moon.

A funeral service will be held at the Abraham Lincoln Veteran's Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to HopeWest Hospice, 3090B North 12th St. Grand Junction, CO 81506 or to Callahan-Edfast, 2515 Patterson Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81505.

Those who knew Jim are thankful for the many years of humor, sense of style and friendship he gave to us.