Florence – James DeWayne Jacobson fought a strong battle against heart disease. He passed away on September 19, 2015 with his son, daughter, granddaughter and wife at his side.
Dad was born on December 16, 1929 in Henefer, Utah. He grew up on a farm and learned to work hard early in his life. He always considered himself a cowboy and always looked the part. He loved a rodeo and especially the bull riding.
Dad’s life was well lived. He worked hard in the construction business. He traveled all over the United States on many large building projects. He was very proud to be the superintendent on the technical government projects he handled over the years. He was also a talented entrepreneur. In the 1960’s when there had been a luge run at Lolo Hot Springs he and our family were actively involved most winter weekends. He developed a sled called the Luge King. He was also a host to the German luge team that came to compete. Dad was thrilled when the U.S. team used his Luge King in the 1966 Winter Olympic games. Dad most recently developed a spill-proof pet feeder, with much hard work with his wife Linda. Dad loved his family but his passion and joy came from his animals. His small ranch in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley was home to many horses, dogs and cats he adopted over the years. They were all provided with the best of care and much love. He never met an animal, wild or tame, that he didn’t show concern for their well-being.
So many, many things will be missed about you dad. You always looked so handsome in your cowboy boots and Stetsons. You had a wonderful singing voice. When you sang those old cowboy tunes, you did sound like Gene Autry. We know one of your favorite lines was “I may be a lefty, but I’m always right!” He had an open mind and a good sense of humor. Dad was also a bit of a restaurant and food critic. We will never sit down in a restaurant again without smiling and thinking of our outspoken, often tenacious father.
Dad, we will miss you! We know you were ready to go into the loving hands of Jesus. We love you.
He is survived by his son, Larry Jacobson of Florence; his daughter and son-in-law, LaRae and Richard Brodowy of Florence; his granddaughter, Lexi Stober and her husband Erik and great-grandsons, Zealan and Finlan Strober, all of Great Falls; his second wife Linda Jacobson and mother-in-law Wanda Lawuers, both of Kalamazoo, Michigan.
The family suggests that memorial donations may be made in James’ name to either a local humane society or to any animal shelter or rescue facility.
At Mr. Jacobson’s request, the family had a private celebration of his life. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.