James Hardy

James L. Hardy

May 13, 1957-Nov. 1, 2025

James L. Hardy, age 68, of Charleston, Utah, a man truly larger than life, passed away after a year long battle with pancreatic cancer.

James was born in Boise, Idaho on May 13, 1957, to Art and Jeannine Hardy. He grew up in a large, lively family with nine brothers and sisters who shaped his love for adventure, hard work, and family. On May 8, 1982, he married his partner and the love of his life, Carmen Schnorenberg. Together they shared 43 years of marriage filled with building companies, creating four homes, racing side by side, and raising a family. They were the truest form of a partnership and a team. Together they raised four children: Christa Dawn (deceased), Mckenzie Graham (Joseph), J.C. Hardy, and Austin Kohlschein-Hardy (Cameron). They were blessed with five grandchildren, Genevieve, Finley, Rowan, Rivers, and James, who brought him immeasurable joy and purpose.

James was a builder in every sense of the word. From forts and treehouses as a boy to founding and running JL Hardy Construction for 35 years, he built commercial projects and one of a kind spaces across the western United States. He poured his heart into creating and crafting. His work stood as a reflection of his character, strong and detailed. A master carpenter, he designed and built buildings, custom pieces, furniture, and he formed lasting friendships along the way. He was an exceptional father, always involved, from leading Boy Scouts and coaching basketball and softball to cheering from the sidelines. He led with confidence, teaching his children through action what it meant to be dedicated and hardworking.

James lived fully. He climbed the highest peaks in the western United States with his five brothers, completed seven full Ironmans, seven half Ironmans, and countless marathons. When he set his mind to something, he finished it with grit, humor, and determination. To know James was to know his sense of humor. It was quick, a little crass at times, but funny as hell. He was also an avid outdoorsman, traveling across Alaska, Canada, Wyoming, Utah, Tanzania, South Africa, and England on hunting adventures. He found peace and purpose in nature, and it was there that he felt closest to God.

James loved horses and the simple joy of a good trail ride with friends. He spent countless hours with his grandchildren in the barn and arena, teaching them to ride and to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. He often said, "I'd rather be in the mountains thinking about God than in church thinking of the mountains." His reverence for creation and his respect for animals were a quiet testament to his faith. Above all, James was an honorable man. His word was his bond, his integrity unwavering. He worked hard, loved deeply, and gave generously. His strength and example will continue to live on in the lives of all who knew him.

Safe travels, James. You are onto your next great adventure.

Funeral services will be held on November 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the home of James and Carmen Hardy (2805 Winterton Road Charleston, Utah). Family and friends are welcome. Please, no children under 12 years old.

Arrangements entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. Share your photos and memories with his family at www.starksfuneral.com