James E. Veatch

Best friend I man could have. The day he turned his boat over in the inlet with his elderly dad he recalled like it was no big deal. He saved his fathers life and nearly lost his. He told the story with a light heart and bud in hand when it was behind him.

I read all the posts and they are all right on target Jim you were a great guy and mentor. Hadn't seen you in a long time but can't forget the the fun memories being on the ski patrol and those fun rides up to girdwood with you in your little sports car. Always the positive fun attitude. Miss you...

One of the first people I ever met in Girdwood when I moved there in 1977. A genuinely good soul and he should have lived to a very old age. It didn't matter if he was working late at night in the Sitzmark or early in the morning on avalanche control, he was looking out for others all the time. Our condolences to the family.

I am saddened that I had never met Jim. Until I read the obituary, I did not realize that I had a second cousin in Anchorage. My grandmother Myra Collins Taylor and Jim's grandmother Laura Collins Veatch were sisters, growing up in Iowa. I met Jim's father, Rev. Ellis Veatch, in Anchorage back in 1967, but I don't believe that I had met any of his children later. My sincere condolences to Jim's family upon his passing.

It was an honor to have known Veatch as a pro patroller and director, as the cheerful Girdwood bus driver, and, to me, he WAS the real Santa Claus. My condolences to his family.

The world is a less fun place without Jim Veatch in it. What a joy to know him, taught me to have fun in my life. Miss you Jim.

Bob Day

My love and condolences to Jill and Tyler (and Susie!)Sorry I will be out of town for memorial ..."Treated people fair" and my favorite boss/mentor!