We are so sad to share the news that Jim passed away last night. While our hearts are breaking, we are so grateful that he was able to come home. All of his children and grandchildren were with him for his last few days and we surrounded him with love. We wanted another 20 years with him, and he did too, but he let us know that he was ready to go. He died peacefully and we are grateful that we were able to take away his pain and help him move on from this life in the way that he wanted. 

While his illness moved more quickly than anyone anticipated and his time in hospice care was short, the time he had was filled with an outpouring of love from so many people. I don’t think it’s possible to put in to words what a good dad and grandpa he was but if you know him, you already know. His commitment to his granddaughters was one of the most special things about him. He built his life around being the grandpa he wanted to be and he excelled at it. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for them and he loved them with his whole heart.

He was also a dear brother, uncle, friend and mentor to so many people. We have received so many messages from people that he treasured dearly and that loved him so well. He always said he was a cranky old guy who didn’t really like to be around people. But in reality, he was a generous, thoughtful, wise and tender man that connected with people easily. He freely shared his extensive knowledge and skills when someone needed help. He could do it all - building projects, math tutoring, driving to the airport at 3 am, reminding you to check your oil and turn your outside water spigot off before the freeze. He lived a life of service. He showed his love by helping and he loved so many people.

To those who loved him - thank you for whatever role you played in his life. He died feeling loved and knowing that he had lived a good life. He would be the first to say that he wasn’t perfect but we really think he was.