James I. Smeltzer

TOWNSEND - James I. Smeltzer, age 56, passed away on Memorial Day, May 30, 2011, at his new home in Townsend. Cremation has taken place and a Life Tribute will be held on June 7 at 2 p.m. at the Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home in Glendive.

Jim was born in Baker on Dec. 12, 1954, to Ira and Gloria Smeltzer. He was the second of five children. He was raised in Glendive and graduated from Dawson County High School with the class of 1973. He later lived in Missoula, Casper and finally resided in Phoenix, Ariz., for the past 25 years. He started his construction career as a Union Laborer working on various projects throughout Montana. In 1987, he started his apprenticeship as a Union Pipefitter-Refrigeration in Phoenix. Jim was recognized as Local 469 Apprentice of the Year Outstanding Apprentice Pipefitter-Refrigeration Award in 1992-1993.

Jim's hobbies included hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with his friends and family. He enjoyed raising, training and showing his registered labs, Pal and Haze. He enjoyed photography, coyote call making and gardening. He carried on the tradition of making fudge, popcorn balls and cookies from his father. His family looked forward to receiving boxes of goodies at Christmas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ira and Gloria Smeltzer; brother, Tom Smeltzer and sister-in-law, Sandra Smeltzer. Jim is survived by his brothers, Everett Smeltzer of Billings and Warren (Kim Rickard) Smeltzer of Billings; his sister, Rita (Vic) Young of Glendive, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silvernale-silhafuneralhome.com or www.aswfuneralhome.com.