James Russell Breitweiser

The heavens had a reason to celebrate, as James Russell Breitweiser entered his heavenly home on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, due to complications resulting from a fall. He was surrounded by loved ones who held and loved him as he finished his earthly journey.
Jim was born October 19, 1936 in Ogden, Utah to Elmer Ellsworth Breitweiser and Helen Russell.
He spent his younger years in Sparks and Reno, Nevada before moving with his family back to Ogden Utah where he especially enjoyed and excelled at playing Basketball for Ogden High School. After graduating, he served in the U.S. Navy, stationed on the U.S.S. Boxer aircraft carrier. Besides his duties while serving, he was also the ships' well-loved DJ, bringing the sailors music, news, and weather with his infectious personality and deep radio voice.
After returning home, he attended Weber Jr. College, Utah State University (BS - Business Admin) and Cal. State Sacramento, with a Master's degree in Business Administration. He later received his CLU professional designation.
Jim married the love of his life and sweetheart, Rose Mary Holley In the Salt Lake City Temple on October 2, 1958. They celebrated their 65th Anniversary in October. They shared many amazing experiences and raised 4 wonderful children.
Jim's career included jobs with Proctor and Gamble, Pfizer, Allstate Insurance, First Security Bank (VP - Insurance Division), before founding Breitweiser Insurance Services in Ogden, where he spent 31 years in the Insurance Industry, retiring in 1997. He was the President of the Independent Insurance Agents of Utah, and also taught sales, finance and insurance courses at Weber State University. He was also the President of the Ogden Exchange club, served on additional committees and Boards, and was a Member of the Blue Goose of Utah.
With Jim's booming, commanding voice, lively character, and quick humor, he was asked to be the Master of Ceremonies at innumerable events. He was always singled out in a crowd for his quick wit and would become part of the unplanned entertainment. Without any musical training or learning how to read music, he had the raw natural talent to excel at singing and performing. He sang "Messiah" with the Ogden Symphonic Choir. He also was involved in church and community choirs and plays with solos and narrative parts. But his passion was singing "Frank Sinatra" songs to Karaoke with friends and family, on cruise ships, and countless other places, entertaining so many.
He enjoyed being an "Extra" in several TV series, movies and commercials including "Touched by an Angel". He was always looking so sharp with his dark hair, tall stature, and classy suit and tie. He was even offered a part when he was young in a Paul Newman movie, "Cool Hand Luke" which he turned down due to conflicts with his job.
Jim served faithfully in many callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including service in two Bishoprics, a Branch Presidency, the Stake High Council, and completing a service mission with Rose as an usher at the Conference Center.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, motorcycling, camping, and all things in the outdoors. He was an avid reader and had an incredible library. He also had a great time playing "Santa Claus" and "Big Foot", causing quite a stir in Northern Utah. He and Rose traveled extensively, in the US and abroad.
He loved his family as the most important part of his life. His wife, Grandchildren, and great Grandchildren were all precious to him and made him proud. He made life exciting; always laughing and bringing a good laugh to everyone around him. He was a man of honesty, dependability, punctuality, generosity, accuracy, gratitude, kindness, and a friend to all, never hesitating to include everyone in his circle. His example of all things good will never be forgotten.
Jim is survived by His wife Rose, and children; Curtis (Caron) Breitweiser, Tricia Osborn, Cherise (Cam) Anderson, Marci (Troy) McKenzie, 16 Grandchildren, 26 Great Grandchildren, and Brother Gary (Rita) Breitweiser.
Jim was preceded in death by his sister Karen Hadley, son-in-law Warren Osborn and his two Grandchildren, J.D. Breitweiser, and Lauren Osborn Call.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at the Burch Creek 3rd ward building, 5161 S. 1300 E. South Ogden. Viewings will be held at the church on Friday, August 23rd from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday prior to the service from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. Interment in the Ogden City Cemetery.
Services will be live streamed and can be watched by clicking on the following link https://myersmortuary.livecontrol.tv/84219ca3
Arrangements entrusted to Myers Mortuary, 845 Washington Blvd., Ogden, UT 84404
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