James Henry Platt

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of James “Jim” Henry Platt, who entered eternal rest on March 31, 2025. Born on February 2, 1942, Jim inspired his family, friends, colleagues, and community with his wisdom, steady courage, and unwavering optimism.

A devoted husband to Frances (Fran) LeFevre Platt (deceased), Jim was the beloved brother of John (Jack) and Peggy Platt, William (Bill) and Sue Platt, and brother-in-law to Ramon (deceased) and Nona LeFevre, Larry (deceased) and Jane LeFevre, and Claudia LeFevre Lowry.

He was a loving father to Cristine Platt Dewey, James (Jay) Platt, Sara Platt Moser, and Catherine (Cathy) Platt Gambold; a cherished father-in-law to Martin (Marty) Moser; and a warmly welcomed future father-in-law to Jodi VanHandel.

Jim was a proud grandfather to Alex and Liam Platt Dewey, Anna, Jimmy, and Gigi Moser, and Abi, Ben, and Evie Gambold. He was the rock and foundation of his family—always present to counsel and support those he loved, grounded in his strong faith and deep belief in the providence of God.

Jim was a decorated Vietnam War veteran who served in the United States Air Force from the 1960s until his retirement as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1993. A graduate of Central Catholic High School and the University of Portland, he joined the ROTC and was selected for the Flight Indoctrination Program. Jim became a highly skilled pilot, flying both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft throughout his distinguished career.​

During his service, Jim was awarded the Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Meritorious Service Medal. Notably, in 1967, as a First Lieutenant and Rescue Crew Commander, he flew 98 combat missions in the HH-3E Jolly Green Giant helicopter, demonstrating exceptional valor and dedication.

Jim's assignments took him across the globe, including service in Thailand as commander of an Air Rescue team, and roles that involved flying the T-38 Talon, C-141 Starlifter, and B-52 Stratofortress. He held various leadership positions, such as Chief of Battle Staff Display at Eighth Air Force and SAC Headquarters, watch officer at EUCOM, and airfield manager at Grand Forks Air Force Base. Jim brought the same calm, steady presence to his military service that he brought to his family life.

While Jim was accomplished in his career, his greatest source of pride and joy was always his family. When Fran passed away, he told everyone that she was the best part of his life for 55 years. Even in his final days, when asked how he was doing, he would smile and say, “I’m great—I’ve got the best family a guy could ask for.” His love was constant, his presence grounding, and his gratitude for those around him was a gift that will be cherished forever.

Jim’s family is planning a funeral mass to be held on April 23, 2025, at 10 am at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 2746 Fifth Street, followed by a noon burial at Cedar Hill Cemetery, 880 E Wolfensberger Rd, both in Castle Rock, CO. All who knew him are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to The Museum of Flight in Seattle, where Jim proudly served as a docent for five years. Contributions in his memory can be made at www.museumofflight.org, supporting the museum’s mission to inspire and educate through the wonder of flight.