James Vern Puls

James Vern Puls, 79, of Edwall, WA, passed away on August 22, 2023. He was born on March 15, 1944. Jim was hardworking, honest, loving, and generous. He loved his family and was always up for an adventure with friends, many we cannot speak about. Jim was known for his willingness to help both friends and strangers in need often letting friends move in for periods of time when they needed a place to stay.

Jim is survived by his three daughters: Kelle Hines (Tim) of Ketchikan, AK; Brandie Diamond of Wilson Creek, WA; and Shanna Puls-Bennett (Dave) of Reardan, WA. He was fortunate to have seven grandchildren: Cheyenne, Dustin, Taryn, Tori, Tristen, Jessica, and Connor. Jim also had numerous great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Helen Puls, and his sister, Lou Puls.

Jim started his ranching career while in high school, setting up a feeding program and earning his FFA chapter farmer degree. At the age of 18, he registered his own brand and started a successful cattle operation. Throughout his life, Jim raised cattle and at the peak of The Quarter Circle JP Ranch, he had 150 cow/calf pairs. Jim dedicated over 60 years of his life to working for Stockland Livestock Exchange. He developed deep friendships with many at the yards and several became like family. He bought and sold horses for several years and was a fixture around many a sale barn. He was a stock contractor, providing stock to Jr. Rodeos and jackpots. Jim also invested time and money to rebuild his father's legacy by helping to restore the first Reardan Arena, which hosted numerous play days and the Vern Puls Memorial Rodeo for three years.

In his early years Jim was a bulldogger and then later became team roper (heeler) for many years, winning several jackpots, including a memorable one in 1991 at the Garwood arena. He had several great roping partners and was very hard pressed to pass up a opportunity to rope. He enjoyed attending rodeos, sharing a good joke, and savoring a strong black velvet.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on August 31, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the Reardan Community Hall in Reardan, WA. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Jensen Memorial Youth Ranch.

Please join us in honoring the life of James Vern Puls, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend.