James P. Visser

James P. Visser, 82, of Billings, formally of Rapelje, passed away March 25, 2016, in Mesa Ariz.

James was born in Columbus on Jan. 3, 1934, to Bernard and Jennie Visser. Dad grew up on the family farm south of Rapelje along with his six brothers and sisters. He graduated from Central High School class of 1951. After graduation he joined the U.S. Navy serving our country for three years. While stationed in Corpus Christi, Texas, he met and Married Barbara Hawkins Sept. 25, 1954. Upon discharge from the navy, they made their way back to the farm in Montana, where together they raised cattle, wheat and four children. After retiring from the farm they moved to Billings and wintered in Apache Junction, Ariz., for over 30 years. Dad enjoyed bowling, fishing, golfing and spending time with friends which they made over the years.

Dad loved his life on the farm…..as the old saying goes "you can take the boy off the farm but you can't take the farm out of the boy."

Preceding dad in death were his parents; wife Barbara (2015); sons Jim (2014) and Michael (1991); sisters, Anne Marie, Genevieve, Theresa; brothers, John and Bernard; and niece Roberta.

He is survived by daughters Teresa (Dale) Carpenter Boise, Denise (Bret) Conover Broadview; daughter-in-law DeAnn Visser; grandchildren Sara (Justin) Murgel, Brandon Visser, Kendra(Matt)Eaton, Chad (Jill) Conover, Craig (Buffy) Conover, Brooke Conover, Jeff (Katie) Carpenter, Patrick Carpenter; nine great-grandchildren; sister Loretta Winters of Great Falls; brother-in-law Bill Reymer of Billings; Nieces Coni, Cindy Sue; and nephew Mark.

Mom and Dad had great faith in the lord and they passed that down to each of his children and grandchildren in how they lived their life. Dad told his grandchildren before he passed keep your faith close to your heart!

A celebration of James life will be at 10 a.m., April 14, with a Memorial mass at ST. Thomas Church, 2055 Woody Drive, Billings. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Billings Catholic School foundation, P.O. Box 31158, Billings, Mt. 59107.