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James Kirsch Obituary
Jim began working for the Alaska Railroad in 1945 and retired 39 years later in 1984 from the job he loved and talked about his whole life. In 1950 he married Elizabeth Alice Grubb and they had two daughters, Bonnie and Barbara. They divorced in 1968 yet remained good friends.
Jim moved to Idaho in 1990 to be near family and warmer weather. He had lived with his daughter Barbara for the last seven years due to declining health.
His family stated, "His love for our Lord Jesus Christ and his family was shown daily. Dad talked about his daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren with love to anyone who would listen. He will be missed by his family, friends and all who knew him."
He is survived by his daughters, Bonnie (Bob) Day in Alaska, Barbara (Rick) Pyles in Idaho, grandchildren Jennifer (Brad) Dugan, Jason (Kristy) Starner and Bryon (Geri) Starner all in Idaho, Ryan (Adair) Harman and Brandon Harman in Alaska;great-grandchildren Kimber, Brittney, Joshua, Emma, Caleb, Luke, Lexi, Jenna, Gabriel and Avery; nephews John and Andy Kirsch and brother David Kirsch.
"He was the best father, grandfather and great-grandfather who has ever lived. We all loved him so very much," his family added.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Kirsch
Dee Frankfourth
May 3, 2011
Dear Bonnie, my condolences on your dad's passing. Thoughts of love coming your way, Dee
Becky (Whaley) Hansen
May 3, 2011
It seems time passes us by...I'm so sorry for your loss,But we still have our " Alaskan, heritage and spirit of Love to carry us through........
I have thought of your family many times through the years,God Bless and keep you........
May 1, 2011
Bonnie and Barb: Its been about 45 years since I last spoke with your father at church, right before I left for the Navy. But I can still remember his humor and his infectious laughter. My condolences for your loss, my prayers are with you both. Tom Brooks , Clermont,Florida
Jane Katkus
May 1, 2011
Bonnie and Barb: So sorry to hear of your loss. Hearing of your Dad's passing takes me back many, many years and evokes all kinds of memories. Stay strong - you will be in my thoughts and prayers for some time yet to come.
Janie
Kaye Pullen
May 1, 2011
Bonnie and Barb: Thinking of you both. Your father was a good man. Loved the fabulous humor...........Kaye and Harvey
John and Coleen Mielke
April 30, 2011
Barbara, Bonnie & families. Your dad used to stop by and visit John when we lived in Chugiak, years ago, he was such a friendly man. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Geri Cannon
April 30, 2011
Barb and family, I never met you, but we sure heard lots of good things about you. I met Jim at PWP when I was widowed in 1980. He came to my housewarming in fall of 81, just after I met David Cannon. Jim was a dear friend, and an usher at our 1983 wedding. We enjoyed having him in our home at least a few times, and the kids enjoyed his stories. We liked reading his Christmas letters and getting phone calls sometimes. I remember the home he designed, in the shape of a cross. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Chris Brooks
April 30, 2011
Bonnie & Barb, I am so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. I will always fondly remember His kindness and good humor. He was a good friend and co-worker. He is a part of good memories of Alaska. Chris
Franco & Kristie Belk
April 30, 2011
Barb & family, Our deepest sympathy for your loss. May you each find comfort in your own special memories as your tears turn to smiles in rememberance of a life well-lived.
Rick Doggett
April 30, 2011
Bonnie and family, I am so aorry for your loss. I can remember all of us piling in your dad's car to catch a ride home after school. My heart goes out to all of you.
Rick Doggett
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