James Higgins

James 'Jim' Patrick Michael Higgins of Loveland, passed away on December 5, 2015 in Loveland. Jim was born in Schuyler, Neb and went to school in Fremont. He enlisted in the Army Air-Force in 1946 and was active during WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. He worked as a JAG paralegal. He was stationed in Kansas, Japan, California, Nebraska, Korea, and the Philippines. James retired at the rank of SMSGT in 1968 and settled with his family in Loveland. In the following years he became employed by both area bowling alleys in Loveland. He started the "299" shop, custom drilling bowling balls for people who enjoyed the sport much like him. Afterwards he worked part time for the city golf course, another sport he loved dearly. He would be at the front gate, many a time before the course crew, to tee off at the first ray of light. He also loved spending time with Carol at their cabin and fishing the Poudre River at their favorite spots. After his second retirement, he donated his time driving for the Saints Organization. In his leisure he helped Carol with her large garden she maintained over the years. Being born and raised in Nebraska, of course he was a die-hard Huskers fan, watching whenever they were on the field and passing the love of the "bugeaters" to many of his children. He was preceded in death by, his father W.J., mother Leora 'Vivian' Bishop, siblings; William, Elizabeth, and Charles. Daughter Margaret, son-in-law Charles Maes. He is survived by; Caroline, wife of 65 years, siblings; Thomas Higgins and Margaret Roddy; children ,Patricia, Kathleen, David, RoseMarie, Vivian, Phillip, Wallace, Susan, and Theresa; 22 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and many beloved nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be held 1 pm Saturday at Resthaven Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Saints Organization in care of Resthaven Funeral Home, 8426 S. HWY. 287, Fort Collins, CO 80525. Family and friends may view the online obituary and sign the guestbook at www.resthavencolorado.com