James Skousen Jr

James Niels Skousen Jr, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, friend, and brother, passed away at the age of 96 in Mesa, Arizona, on November 5, 2016, following a period of declining health.

Jimmy was born August 17, 1920 in Phoenix, Arizona to James Niels Skousen and Ida Walser Skousen, their thirteenth child of 13. He also had 11 half-brothers and sisters. He attended schools in Chandler, Arizona. As a young man, Jim loved and honored his parents and siblings. Early on, he developed a strong work ethic by working with his father and brothers farming and milking cows. In 1942, after a year of college, he was called to serve a LDS mission in Hawaii. This call was changed to the Eastern Canada mission, due to the growing tensions in the Pacific and the threat of war. After his mission, he served as a scout in the United States Army during World War II where he saw action in the Philippines and Japan. He was awarded the Bronze Star for heroism. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University in Agronomy in 1950.

On June 26, 1947, Jim married Lorene Morris in the Mesa, Arizona temple. They are the parents of six children. They lived in Provo, Utah; Yuma, Arizona; Rupert, Idaho; Ontario, Oregon; and Mesa, Arizona. Jim and Rene raised their family primarily in Ontario, Oregon.

Jimmy was active in many sports as a participant, coach, and spectator. He was a star athlete in football and track at BYU. He was able to outrun and out throw his sons until he was seventy. He loved farming and hunting. He taught his children the value of hard work and a love of the outdoors. His children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he loved each one. He will be remembered for his big heart, his ability to make others happy, and his love for and deep commitment to his friends and family. Jimmy had the ability to bring life and laughter to any situation.

Jim was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served diligently in many capacities. He and Lorene served a LDS mission in the Little Rock, Arkansas Mission. His example of faith, integrity, strength, and perseverance has touched many people.

He is survived by his wife Lorene; their children James (Debbie), Bruce (Shirley), Tawna, Jeff (Debbie), and Teddi (Joe) Richardson; his sister Della (Bob) Stilmar; 20 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren; and other much loved extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his son Chip, his parents, and 22 siblings.

Special thanks to Teddi and family for their exceptional care of Dad (and Mom) for the past fifteen years. Also, thanks to the Mesa Auction “family,” who provided years of weekly fun and entertainment for Dad.

Interment will be at the Valley of the Sun Memorial Park, 10940 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, Arizona. A visitation/viewing will be held Friday, November 11, 2016 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Memorial services will be held Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 10:00 AM. Both will be held at the Lehi Stake Center, 1430 N. Grand, Mesa, Arizona.