James F. "Jim" Walton

James F. “Jim” Walton January 29, 1931 - September 4, 2010 Age: 79 Residence: Eaton With his wife and family by his side, on September 4, 2010 Jim left this earthly life and moved to his heavenly home. Jim was born in Colorado Springs to Roger F. and Pearl E. (Walker) Walton. He attended school in Cripple Creek and Grand Junction, Colorado, graduating from Central High School in 1949. In high school he sang in many musical groups and lettered in football, basketball and track. He was also editor of the school paper. When the news broke of the Korean Conflict, Jim and three of his buddies decided to enlist in the Navy to serve their country. After completing basic training and Cooks and Bakers school in San Diego, he was assigned to Seattle Naval Air Station as a Commissaryman. Upon receiving permission from his parents, he married his high school sweetheart, Marjorie L. Cooper on August 26, 1951. He continued his duties in Seattle until he was assigned to the USS Manchester in May 1953. The Manchester sailed for Korean waters to support the ground troops. After being hit by enemy fire, the cruiser returned to Long Beach for repairs and then set sail once again for the Far East. He proudly served his country. Receiving his Honorable Discharge on July 30, 1954, he then joined his family in Grand Junction. Jim earned his Associates degree at Mesa College (Mesa State), continuing in Greeley for his Bachelors degree at Colorado State College of Education (UNC), completing his Masters degree at Western State College in Gunnison. Jim was a secondary teacher in Crested Butte and Grand Junction. He later achieved his Class D certification and served as a school administrator in Lamar and Cripple Creek. Throughout his career he touched many young lives as a Director of Athletics in addition to being an advisor of FFA and Student Council. Jim’s relationship with Jesus Christ led him to serve as an Elder in the church, a member of the Church Camp Board, a youth sponsor and choir member. He ministered to others until his last day here on earth. In addition to hunting, fishing and camping, he also enjoyed tying flies, candle making, ceramics, woodworking and spending time with his family. Jim utilized his skills in woodworking to create wooden toys which he donated to children. He leaves behind his wife Marjorie of 59 years, his four children, Linda (Larry) Castor of Eaton; Cheryl Paget of Windsor; Janet (Joe) Harbert of Lamar; Jeff (Chris) Walton of Calhan; 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He is survived by his sisters, Elsie (Tommy) Combs of Grand Junction and Betty Mahan of Silt. He was preceded in death by his parents. Services will be held at Evangelical Free Church in Eaton at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 9, 2010. Memorial Contributions may be made to Evangelical Free Church of Eaton (Haiti Mission Trip) or to Life Care Center of Greeley.

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James F. "Jim" Walton

January 29, 1931 - September 4, 2010