James T. "Jim" Thorup

On Tuesday, July 16, 2024, after three months in the hospital and rehab centers in Kansas, James Tat (Jim) Thorup passed away peacefully at the age of 93, in the arms of his loving wife, Clara Beth Smith Thorup. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Berg Thorup and Agnes LaPreal Maxwell, son, James Clyde Thorup, brother Don R. Thorup and great-grandson, Dax Bennett Davidson.
On December 20, 1930, Jim and his twin brother, Richard M. Thorup, were born in Salt Lake City, Utah to James B. and Agnes M. Thorup. Jim was blessed as an infant in Salt Lake City on March 1, 1931, by his father. Then, on his eighth birthday, he was baptized in Logan by his father in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Jim spent his early years in the Salt Lake City area. He later moved to California, where he made wonderful memories including earning his Eagle Scout award on January 14, 1947.
When Jim turned 19, he was excited about being called to the Mexican mission, where he served for 30 months. He was privileged to open up the missionary work in Honduras. While serving there, he baptized José Santos Ortega as the first member of the church in Honduras. José was then confirmed by Jim's twin brother, Richard M. Thorup.
After Jim's mission, he continued with his education, and also found the love of his life, Clara Beth Smith in Raleigh, North Carolina. Jim earned his master's degree from North Carolina State University. He then married Clara on June 9, 1958. They were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple on June 23, 1958.
Jim later earned his PhD in Soil Chemistry and Plant Nutrition from the University of California in Davis, California. After graduating, Jim worked for Chevron Chemical Company for his entire career, retiring in 1992.
Jim was a dedicated member of his church throughout his life serving faithfully and holding many positions including Sunday school teacher, Sunday school president, scout master, Bishop's counselor and he also served as a member of the Stake High Council.
Jim was loved deeply by his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His retired years revolved around spending time with his wife and children and supporting his grandchildren in all of their various activities.
Jim will be missed tremendously and is survived by his wife, Clara Beth Smith Thorup, his children: Crystle LaPreal (Mark) Munden, Thomas Smith (Lorena)Thorup, Daniel Jay (Rhonda)Thorup and Carolynn (Kenneth) Petersen. He is survived by 16 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and siblings, Richard M. (Evelyn) Thorup, Linda (Russel) Bevans, and Doretta Thorup.
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