Jim Reeman's well lived 93 years was marked by a lifetime of service, sincere love for his family, hard work, and an affectionate spirit of friendship extended to all he knew. Jim often told his son's, "Someday when you leave this earth, all you will have to show for yourself is what you have done for others."
James Francis Reeman was born July 3, 1930, the son of Frank & Gladys Reeman, was raised in Eaton and graduated in 1948. Jim was active in Future Farmers of America, was Sophomore class President, and participated in plays. He lettered in football and basketball, making all conference three years in a row and winning two state championships.
Jim worked on several farms with his brother, including Don Anderson. Inc, Brush Creek Ranch, and their folks home farm. He attended Colorado State University where he played football. Jim was drafted into the United States Marines and served 13 months in Korea and received battle citations, two field promotions, Presidential unit citations, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Medal. Jim returned to Camp Pendleton, California and was responsible for combat training of officers and later was Honorably Discharged. Jim said,
"The Marines gave me great direction, leadership qualities, responsibility, interests and pride."
Later, Jim attended Colorado State Teachers College, now known as the University of Northern Colorado. He was captain of the football team where lettered for 3 years. He also served as president of the Letterman's Club and was chosen as the UNC representative on the 8-Team Athletic Board.
While attending college Jim worked for Coors, Great Western Sugar Company, Northern Bean Company and farmed with his brother Jack. Jim graduated with a B.A. and M.A. and went on to teach and coach football in Arizona before returning home.
Jim and Jack purchased a ranch near Purcell and enjoyed rodeos, roping, buying livestock, veterinary work, fence and barn building. Jack was an expert with equipment. While ranching and farming Jim taught school in Denver where he was offered numerous coaching and administrative positions which he turned down. While teaching, he organized and participated in the National Western Stock Show and Denver School Curriculum Development. For over 40 years Jim officiated football, basketball and worked numerous state championships.
Jim claims his greatest moment was meeting and marrying the love of his life, Susan Knight Reeman on December 22, 1967. After they were married Jim continued teaching in Denver Public Schools with Susan, and later left teaching to become a banker at Greeley National Bank. Jim's years at the bank included positions as Appraiser, Farm Manager, Loan Officer, Vice President of Loans, and Senior Vice President. He also served as the president, chairman or director of over 20 different community and civic organizations. More significant to Jim than any of his titles were the lasting friendships he developed with local farmers, staff, and associates. He truly never recognized position, but instead treated everyone with kindness and respect.
Jim and Susan raised two great boys, Jimmy & Randy. The boys pursued rewarding careers in aviation and music. He was also a treasured grandfather to three grandchildren: Mitchell, Jonah and Faith; as well as a Father-in-law to Anne Rieh Reeman.
Jim reflected that some of the greatest moments of his life were the numerous world-wide family trips made possible by Sue's exceptional planning. Without a doubt Jim thought he had the greatest friend, partner, and wife in the world.
Jim's infectious enthusiasm and loving heart were characterized by one of his favorite motto's that he lived until his last day: "Every day is a bonus day!"
Jim is survived by his wife Susan, son Randy, daughter-in-law Anne, son Jimmy, grandchildren Mitchell, Jonah, and Faith, sister Deanna Haefeli, sister-in-law Norma Reeman, nieces Jo and Jennifer, as well as numerous other nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his mother Gladys', father Frank, sister Nelly, brother Jack, and nephew Matt.
A celebration of life will be held at the Eaton Evangelical Free Church at 1:30 pm on Tuesday November 28. In lieu of gifts or flowers please make donations to the Eaton American Legion Post 26 Scholarship Fund in his honor.
A Note from Jim:
"In my life I was so fortunate to have had the support of my family, and great leaders and mentors in the Marines and business. Significant advisors included Sue's Dad, Roger D. Knight, Jr., senior officers in the bank, Stow Witwer, and Roger Schultz. I also treasured my experience and crews in my 40 years of athletic officiating.
I am very proud of my commitment to improving our farms, the Grand Lake property, and handling several Estates. Also, I am blessed for the leadership opportunities I was provided and grateful for my family."
Link to Jim Reeman's Speech to the Marine Corp Ball: http://jamesreeman.com
Here are a few of the organizations that Jim supported and led:
• Colorado Bankers Association – President of Regional Clearing House
• First Congregation Church, Greeley, CO
• Colorado Cattle Feeders Board of Directors, 13 years. Chairman of Convention Committee, Chairman of Public Relations Committee, Vice President. Retired Executive Vice President, elect.
• United Way Board of Directors-Nine Years
• Chairman, Colorado Farm Show
• Board of Directors, Director Colorado Farm Show
• President, Board of Directors, Greeley T-Bone Club, representing prominent agri-business related organizations.
• Top fund raiser for Partners Organization in Greeley, Colorado
• Certified official in football and basketball - 40 years
• Ad Hoc Committee for development of facilities for Greeley and Weld County
• Eaton American Legion Post No. 26, – Commander 14·years--59-year member
• Life member-Ault Veterans of Foreign War
• Honorary Member of Last Patrol -American Legion
• Member of Marine Corps. League
• President of Eaton Lions
• Director -Eaton Summer Recreation Program
• Superintendent of Weld County Fair and Fair Marketing Committee
• Nine-year member of Hospice of Weld County and Board of Directors
• Past President and Board Member of Eaton Historical Pioneer Society