James William Kaus

James William Kaus, known as Jim, Jimbo, or “Jimmy,” passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at age 54, due to a rollover car accident. He died at the scene without suffering, bringing some comfort to those who love him.

Jim was a family treasure, a larger-than-life personality, and a man whose heart was every bit as big as his ideas. Born at Boulder Community Hospital and raised in Lafayette, Colorado, Jim eventually made his home in Nunn, where he and the love of his life, his wife Tessa (Canaiy) Kaus, spent the past five years building their homestead.

Jim was a devoted husband, father, son, uncle, and brother. His love for Tessa was at the center of his world, and together they raised Aden Canaiy-Clarkson (20) and David Kaus (8). There was no limit to what Jim would do for his family. His loyalty as a dad defined him. Whether wrestling with David or showing up for Aden, his love was wholehearted and unwavering. Family was a treasured part of Jim’s life, and that love will remain part of his legacy.

Jim wore many hats throughout his life: first-born trail breaker (some would say hell raiser!), Centaurus High School football team captain, black belt karate instructor for Lafayette Parks and Rec, production butcher at Albertsons and Whole Foods, Colorado State college graduate with a degree in I.T. Administration, and most recently, I.T. Support Specialist Supervisor for SummitStone Health Partners. He also served as a Town Trustee for Nunn, dedicated to the community he called home.

His years behind the meat counter gave him the skill to cook an incredible steak, a few scars, and plenty of stories. They also inspired him to launch his own private meat processing business, pursuing yet another big idea. Jim was endlessly curious, always learning, planning, and dreaming up his next venture. His ideas stretched as far as the Milky Way, and family and friends loved dreaming alongside him (before helping bring those ideas back down to earth!). Of course, Jim was often onto the next thing before finishing the last three—but that was part of his charm.

If you knew Jim, you knew his laughter and zest for life. He was jolly, optimistic, thoughtful, honest beyond belief, fiercely loyal, and a barrel of a man. He never met a stranger who didn't soon become a friend. He was an exceptionally thoughtful gift giver and an outstanding hugger. He loved family gatherings, hard work, good food, sunsets, exploring, camping, adventures, belly laughs, and being helpful. If you are ever lucky enough to go elk hunting with a production butcher, you'll understand just how handy Jim was on a hunting trip.

Jim is survived by his wife, Tessa, and sons, Aden and David; his parents, Joseph Kaus and Nora (Fehringer) Kaus, who recently celebrated 54 years of marriage; his brother, Doug Kaus, and niece, Eva; and sisters, AnnMarie Johnson, her husband, Zeke, and their daughters, Kennedy and Taylor; and Amanda Berga and her children, Aria and Reese. He also leaves behind extended family, countless friends, and a community richer for having known him.

Jim lived with love, gratitude, and an appreciation for life's simple joys. His devotion to family, friends, and community was genuine and at the core of who he was. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, the stories, laughter, and love he leaves behind will continue to connect those who knew him.

A family treasure. A loyal friend. A devoted husband and dad. Loved beyond measure. Missed beyond words.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please wear your seatbelt when you drive and share Jim's favorite joke with a friend: “Why do gorillas have big nostrils?... Because they have big fingers.”