It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our loving father, grandfather and brother, James “Jim” Powell, Sr. Jim departed this world unexpectedly yet peacefully on Jan. 30, 2024, at the age of 68 at his home in Boulder.
Jim was born on Nov. 12, 1955, in Butte, the second son to Nina and Don Powell of Boulder. He grew up in Boulder, where he attended school and spent time hunting, fishing, camping and making lifelong friends and connections.
Jim married the love of his life, Peggy Verrall, on Oct. 23, 1974. He worked at the Montana Developmental Center in Boulder as a maintenance employee and groundskeeper, retiring on May 29, 2008 after 32 years and 11 months. Never being one to sit still, Jim then went to work for R.S. Guilio Contractor and Bullock Contracting, where he got to do the work he really enjoyed, running heavy equipment and driving trucks.
When he did have free time, Jim liked to spend it with his kids, grandkids and friends. You would often find him fishing the causeway or below the dam, going to his Tuesday night dart league, sharing his homemade bacon or other recipes he recently discovered with his close friends, and stepping in from time to time to play some keno and catch up on the local gossip.
Above all else, Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle, and a loyal friend to all. He would welcome just about anyone in with open arms and kind words. His passing is being felt far beyond just the members of his family, across his community.
Jim leaves behind his children Jim (Stacey), Shane (Jason), Kelly and Shelly; and his brothers John (Tammi) Jay and Jeff (Anna). He also leaves his many grandchildren, Riley, Kaleb, Hayley, Mason, Joan, Jazlynn, Marshal, Gemma, Anthony, Ethan, Dakota, Kennedy, Jake, Jackie, Jennifer, Katlyn, and Jaime; great-grandchildren, Hylia and Willow; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his wife Peggy, and parents Nina and Don.
Per Jim’s request, there will be no funeral services, but the family is planning a celebration of his life this summer. Details will be announced later.
