James "Jimmy" Schultz

James was born on April 2nd, 1953 in Burbank, CA to Donald and Alva (Luper) Schultz. He grew up in Costa Mesa, CA and was the youngest of three. Prior to moving to Colorado, he enjoyed the many perks California had to offer including camping on the beach and cruising his Harley up and down the coast with friends. In addition, he was an accomplished athlete who as a freshman in high school lettered in football, wrestling, and baseball and ultimately went on to play college baseball and football for Orange Coast College.

In the late 70s his desire to be in the mountains brought him to Colorado where he fell in love with a piece of land and cabin in Pinewood Springs just outside of Lyons. Soon after settling into his new surroundings, he met his future wife, Joanne (Becker) and her daughter, Sara. Upon meeting, James and Joanne were eager to start their family and were married on February 14th, 1981, at their Pinewood home. They rounded out their family with two additional children (Jennifer and Samuel) by late 1983.

Shortly after the birth of their son, James and Joanne relocated the family to Longmont and it was during this time James would redefine the words loyalty, love, and hard work. This is apparent with his many family trips, visits to Disneyland, camping with the family, and years of coaching Sam’s sports. He managed all of this while still playing competitive softball with the “Stingers” in Lyons and maintaining the Pinewood House for family visits. In addition to being a hands-on father and husband, he was an accomplished Master Optician who held a career in photonics for 45 years, where he manufactured and designed laser optics and optical components. A piece of his mastery still orbits the Earth to this day.

The greatest joy in his life was when he became a grandfather in 2006. From this moment on, he was affectionately known by all as “Grandpa Jimmy”. He adored his grandchildren and loved his time spent with each one. Whether it was orchestrating an epic Easter egg hunt in Pinewood, sneaking them candy and treats, going on bike rides or being an amazing baseball spectator, he was always present and available for his grandchildren. The pride he had for his children and the joy his grandchildren brought to his life could be seen and felt by all. The happiness his children and grandchildren brought him could always transform a room.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Alva Schultz. He is survived by his wife of 41 years Joanne, his three children Sara (Josh) Wright and their sons JD and Sam; Jennifer (David) and their son David; and Sam (Lacie) and their children Carson, Hayden, Davis and Owen; Brother Larry (Carol) Schultz and their sons Brett and Brian; and his sister Linda Sommers and her daughters Ericka and Candy.

Although his passing was tragic and sudden, the family takes solace in knowing that Grandpa Jimmy passed away where his Colorado journey and life truly began, Pinewood Springs.

An Open House Celebration of Life was held for Jimmy on Sunday, January 16th at Smokin' Dave's in Lyons, Colorado. Thank you to all those who were able to attend and remember Jimmy together.Please consider a charitable contribution in Jimmy's memory to the Pinewood Springs Fire Protection District at 61 Kiowa Rd, Lyons, CO 80540. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy are appreciated and may be shared at www.ahlbergfuneralchapel.com.