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James Whitmore Obituary
Jim Whitmore was born in Toledo, Ohio and spent much of his life in Southern California before moving to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho in 1994, where he often said he was thankful to call northern Idaho home. A proud Vietnam War veteran, Jim dedicated his life to serving others-his country, his family, his community, and anyone lucky enough to call him a friend. After his service, Jim worked as an aircraft mechanic for Trans World Airlines (TWA), where his love of travel took him to Hawaii, New Zealand, and Greece. True to form, he shared those discounted tickets with his parents so they could see the world too. A gifted mechanic and builder, Jim's love showed up in what he created with his hands: a family home constructed while working full-time on just a few hours of sleep, a 1969 El Camino restored from the ground up, and a retrofitted motorhome so his beloved wife Vicki could continue traveling even when wheelchair bound. He remained faithfully by her side through her chronic illness until her passing. He even helped his daughter deck out her right-hand drive postal vehicle during her years as a mail carrier. Jim volunteered to oversee the construction of a church and could regularly be found checking in on a friend's home build-driving out multiple times a week to make sure everything was exactly right. A devoted Christian and lifelong animal lover, Jim's life was never without a loyal companion by his side. From Ranger, the husky he carried in his arms to say goodbye to, to his beloved poodles Markie, Molly, and Mickey-who faithfully supervised the restoration of the El Camino-to Charlie, the spirited mixed breed who stayed by his side through his cancer treatments. Jim's animals were not just pets; they were family. Jim made people feel cared for and important by helping them any way he could. Jim is survived by his daughter Christina, his son Michael, and his sister Ginger. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on March 19, 2026, at Candlelight Christian Fellowship.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Whitmore
6 Entries
Pennie Collinson
March 19, 2026
This is today on march 19, 2026 James celebration of life
Pennie Collinson
March 16, 2026
More photos James and Vicki
Pennie Collinson
March 13, 2026
More photos of James and family
Pennie Collinson
March 13, 2026
Some more photos of James and family
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Pennie Collinson
March 12, 2026
In Loving Memory of James
I met James when he moved into the home he had built through a contractor here in Forest Park. From the very beginning, he was one of the nicest people I had ever met. What started as neighborly conversations quickly grew into a genuine friendship. Over time, he became like a father figure to me - steady, caring, and always looking out for others.
Pennie Collinson
Pennie Collinson
March 12, 2026
I met James when he moved into the home he had built through a contractor here in Forest Park. From the very beginning, he was one of the nicest people I had ever met. What started as neighborly conversations quickly grew into a genuine friendship. Over time, he became like a father figure to me steady, caring, and always looking out for others.
He absolutely adored Piper. She was only seven weeks old when she came into my life, and we weren´t letting anyone touch her yet. But somehow, she knew James was safe. She would run straight to the fence just to see him. Every single day even in the snow they played ball together. Watching them was one of the sweetest parts of my day. Their bond was pure and joyful.
James was protective of me in a way that felt rare. As I´ve been going through this incredibly difficult lawsuit against the sheriff, I would tell him what was happening. He always listened. He gave advice. He reassured me. He told me he would watch out for me. He made me feel safe at a time when everything else felt uncertain.
When he got sick, it happened so fast. I truly believed he would beat it. Then came the call that he was in hospice. Piper and I went to see him on Christmas Eve, and I´m grateful we had that moment. He passed early Christmas morning around 3 a.m. The world felt different instantly.
Every weekday, I go over to see Charlie. Piper plays with him while Mike is at work, and I make sure he´s fed and loved. It breaks up his day so he isn´t alone. He always had his dad, James, right by his side, and you can see in his eyes that he misses him deeply. We all do.
I look out my window and see James´s house, and part of me still expects to see him standing by the fence, ready to talk, ready to laugh, ready to be the good man he always was. The silence is heavy. The absence is real. And life in Forest Park will never be the same.
James, you were a blessing to everyone who knew you. You were kind, protective, loving, and steady. You made this neighborhood feel like family. You made us feel safe. You made Piper´s world brighter. And you made mine better.
I miss you dearly.
Rest in peace, James.
Pennie Collinson and family and Piper
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