Jim Paul Thorwarth

Jim Paul Thorwarth was born October 24, 1939 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He died June 11, 2016 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Amolyn Thorwarth; his sister and brother-in-law, Jody and Eugene Bullard.

He leaves behind his wife, Patsy Wilson Thorwarth; two sons, Jim Thorwarth Jr. (Holly), Otto Thorwarth (Brandi); one daughter, Jill Lacomfora (Jason); four grandchildren, Logan Lammers, Timothy Douglas, McKenna and Amolyn Thorwarth.

Jim Paul was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He and Patsy began dating while attending Fort Smith High School. While in college, they secretly eloped their sophomore year: a marriage that would last 57 years. He was a loving father of three. He shared his love of football with his oldest son, Jim, and they could often be found watching football together. Jill and Jim Paul shared a similar work ethic. He was immensely proud of her successful therapy business. Hunting and fishing were only a few of many loves that Jim Paul shared with Otto. He loved watching Otto as his racing career developed. He was always supportive of his children and their biggest fan.

Jim received his B.S.E. from the College of the Ozarks; his M.S. from Henderson State University. Jim enjoyed a 25 year career as a football coach; the last 17 years at Hot Springs High. He then began a 30 year career as a Striper Guide on Lakes Hamilton and Ouachita. Joe Ward, John Hall, and David Cochran played an important role in this endeavor. He enjoyed his fishing customers, some fished with him for 30 years. He developed personal relationships with many. Jerry Pickens, and Dave Ferguson being two close friends. Another passion of Jim’s was hunting various wildlife. This passion took him hunting across the country. His favorite trips were hunting quail or duck with his beloved dogs. He enjoyed many great hunts with Otto, Tony Smith, Tommy Lester, Roger Dorsey, and George Cochran.

He shared a special friendship with Tony Smith (Wanda) and Gary Jones (Mary).

Jim Paul and Patsy were members of Highland Presbyterian Church for many years until it dissolved. Then they joined First Lutheran. Jim Paul enjoyed the spiritual guidance from Pastor Jon.