James G. "Jim" Walter

James G. "Jim" Walter, 77, "went to be with the Lord" on June 25, 2006, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He will be remembered by his family and friends as a very loving and caring man. Jim was born Sept. 21, 1928, in Froid, Mont. to Joseph and Inez (Tunison) Walter. Jim died at his home in Bigfork.

He spent his childhood in Wolf Point. He served in the United States Army as a paratrooper during World War II, post occupation.

In 1948, he married the love of his life, Renell Ann Hagestad. This union was blessed with three children.

Jim established a successful business, Jim's Meat Market, in Poplar. He was actively involved in the Lutheran Church, Poplar school system, the Masonic Lodge, American Legion, Montana Pilot Association, and other local organizations.

Jim moved to Bigfork in 1984 to enjoy retirement and spend time with his wife and family. He spent his years at home, elk hunting, ice fishing, watching his grandchildren play sports and enjoying quality time with family and friends.

Jim will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and a true friend to many.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Renell; and his son, Raymond Walter.

He is survived by his son, Mitch, and wife, Nan Walter, of Columbus; daughter, Deb'e, and husband, Terry Skellenger, of Polson; brother, Kenneth, and wife, Leone Walter, of Wolf Creek; his sister, Dorothy, and husband, Marvin Wambach, of Cartwright, N.D.; six grandchildren, Michael, Travis, Bradley, David, Tosha and Mandy; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for James Walter were held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 28, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Bigfork, with Pastor Jack Shannon officiating. Burial was at 3 p.m. Wednesday at Lakeview Cemetery in Polson.

The family suggests that any memorial contributions be sent to Home Options Hospice, 175 Commons Loop, Suite 100, Kalispell, MT 59901; or to Northwest Healthcare Foundation, 310 Sunnyview Lane, Kalispell, MT 59901.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for James' family.