James William Desautel

James (Jim) passed away at home on Sunday, June 1, 2025 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Jim was born on July 3, 1951 in San Fernando, California. He grew up playing basketball and softball as well as camping and hunting with friends and family. After high school graduation, he headed to the University of Wyoming where he met the love of his life, Cindy. Both were students with Jim enrolled in accounting and Air Force ROTC and Cindy in education. They were married in 1971 and after graduation, Jim started his career in the Air Force with a commission of second lieutenant.

The Air Force became Jim and Cindy’s life, taking them to various parts of the United States. Two sons graced their lives and joined them on the journey as a military family. Jim’s Air Force career spanned nearly four decades as active duty, reserves, and civil service. He was very proud to have been a part of the military, especially the Air Force. He loved to display the American flag on the front porch every day, weather permitting.

Jim’s last duty assignment landed him at Peterson AFB, Colorado. Jim and Cindy made their home in the Monument community, finally close to family. It was so special to him to be able to connect with extended family in Colorado and Wyoming. It was also here Jim was able to pursue his childhood hobby of model trains. He met a group of people who furthered the hobby and developed friendships with them who he called his Train buddies. The relationship with the Train Buddies led to many wonderful train adventures across the country.

Jim loved cheering for his favorite sports teams, the Broncos and the Dodgers and he especially enjoyed lively “discussions” with those that had different favorite teams. Dodgers vs. Yankees after the 2024 World Series was subject to one of those discussions.

In 2020, Jim was diagnosed with cancer and he bravely endured many rounds of chemotherapy, hoping to find a cure or at least remission. During his treatments at UC North oncology department, he had the privilege of being treated by the most amazing nurses and doctors who demonstrated such kindness and professionalism. And when Jim was released into Hospice, he found another group of amazing medical professionals. He was humbled by the care he received to the very end.

A LIFE WELL LIVED!