Our Papa was always the leader of our family physically and spiritually. In the last few months he had struggled with the fact that he was 94 years old but was the picture of health until a battle with pneumonia overtook him.
Papa spent his early years taking care of family since his own father passed away while he was still very young. When Pearl Harbor was bombed, he had the desire to serve his country, a very admirable decision. Joining the U.S. Navy right after high school, he was at sea for 18 months during World War II defending our freedom. We were blessed to get him back as many families did not have their heroes return. After being honorably discharged, he attended Nixon Clay Commercial College majoring in accounting. He became an accountant and met the love of his life, Mary Helen, their marriage lasting 68 years, what a beautiful thing.
James retired after 30 years of state employment and enjoyed his retirement days with his loving wife traveling and following a country western swing crowd. The Texas Travelers were created and played many shows.
James is preceded in death by his parents; son, Larry S. Bargsley; and sister, Betty Jane Oertli. He will be sadly missed by his loving and devoted wife of 68 years, Mary Helen Bargsley; sons, Tim Bargsley and wife Elaine and Bryan Bargsley and wife, Carolyn; grandchildren, Chase Bargsley and wife, Jennifer, James Bargsley, and Greg Payne; brother, John Bargsley and wife, Rawnie Sue; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of friends.
The family will receive friends from 12:00 P.M. to 1:00 P.M., Friday, September 7, 2018 at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home followed by a Celebration of James’ Life in the Chapel at 1:00 P.M. Interment will follow at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Memorial Park.
Honoring James as pallbearers will be Bryan Bargsley, Tim Bargsley, Chase Bargsley, James Bargsley, Greg Payne, James Moczygemba, Roy Grona and Eric Spille.
