Jim and his brother, Roger, grew up on their parent’s ranch, learning the value of hard work, diligence, and craftsmanship early on.
He went on attend West Valley High School. His body, demeanor and determination made it effortless for him to excel at any sport, leading him to play football for Washington State University. That accomplishment was cut short by his insatiable curiosity and interest in airplanes. When he, one day, had his attention to a plane in the sky and biked over to Felts Field. He became one of the first new enlistees in the Air Force. With his exquisite attention to detail, it was natural for him to be a crew chief. He became one with the P51 Mustang, knowing it in and out. Always having it in top notch form.
He declined a prestigious job offer with NASA in Florida, to make his home in Spokane as a fireman with his sweetheart, Lola “Kay” and their four children; David, Steven, Mark and Christine.
Jim took great joy in sharing many activities with his kids; Boy Scouts, sports and most of all adventures in the great outdoors, which ran through his veins. He taught them all, as he was by his father, the love of camping, foraging, huckleberries, catching fish and harvesting game.
Jim went on countless hunting excursions, making many lifelong friends, along the way. All the way up North to the NWT. Any friend of Jim’s has at least one great story to tell that involves an adventure of some sort.
Through the years, Jim became a modern day Da Vinci, crafting many unique things from the size of a clothespin to a house. His unique touch went devotedly into everything he made. His skills were bar none and mind boggling, coming up with countless creations.
As time went on he became a grandfather of 6 and 4 great grandkids. He continued to share his sense of adventure and way with the camping, fishing, and hunting. He also was their biggest cheerleader in a wide range of sports and activities.
When Jim began to slow down (which no one ever thought possible), he went from the Great Hunter to Snow White of the forest, using his acquired skills and knowledge to instead befriend and observe all the creatures of the woods. He was up close and personal with them feeding by hand, naming them and documenting their lives. Jim also became quite the story teller. In being more sedentary other passions arose. Jim and Kay became Zags fanatics, not missing a single game. Following every move they made. They really enjoyed all the excitement of having a home town champion team to take pride and pleasure in.
In his final days, he was surrounded by those he held dear, with ever flowing love and devotion. WHOOPIE, WHOOPIE
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