James Russell Durtsche, 71

James Russell Durtsche was born in Kalispell on July 7, 1946, and passed away at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Aug. 15, 2017.

He was the first born son of Raymond Harold Durtsche and Betty Jane Morgan Durtsche. Jim spent the majority of his life in Kalispell. Jim attended Kalispell schools and, after graduating from Flathead High School in 1965, he joined the United States Marine Corps and fought in Vietnam, rising to the rank of sergeant. Upon returning to Kalispell from Vietnam, Jim worked for various companies and retired after a long career as salesman for Industrial Supply and Fastenal.

Jim was an avid bowler. He enjoyed hunting, camping, fishing, and spending time with his family. Jim loved following sports, always making sure to keep up with all the local teams. Jim was also a 40-year member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Harold Durtsche and Betty Jane Morgan Durtsche.

He is survived by his brother, Gary Duane Durtsche, of Kalispell; two aunts, Harriet Morgan Hill of Salt Lake City, and Sandra Kay Smith of Redmond, Oregon; and many cousins, too many to name.

Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 21, at Glacier Memorial Gardens.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for the family.