In Loving Memory

James Wiley "Jim" Bannon

James Wiley "Jim" Bannon, age 79, passed away with his loving wife, Debbie, by his side at his Colville home on December 2, 2022, due to complications from prostate cancer.  Jim was born on June 15, 1943 in Colville, WA to James Verne and LaVerne (Wiley) Bannon.

Jim would attend grade school in Orient through 7 ^th grade before moving over to Kettle Falls, graduating from Kettle Falls High School with the Class of 1961.  In his time there, Jim was a skilled athlete, participating in basketball, football, however Jim's athletic abilities shone especially bright in track, which he would continue into college.

Jim attended college at Eastern Washington University and Washington State University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in Forestry.  Soon after graduating, Jim was drafted into the Army, serving in Vietnam.  While deployed, his wife, Sharon would give birth to their daughter, Sherri.  Jim was discharged the following year, in 1969, and returned home to his new family.

Upon his return home, Jim would settle down in Idaho and here, he began his forestry career.  For the next 40 years, Jim worked for various companies, retiring as a self-employed forester.  On December 3 ^rd , 2001, Jim would marry the love of his life, Debbie Palm, after having been acquaintances for many years.  The pair would spend the next 20 years enjoying each other's company and making memories together.

Jim was a man that loved people and took a genuine interest in the people in his life.  He continued his passion for sports through his daughter, grandson, nieces and nephews, cheering them on throughout their own careers as student athletes.  Jim also frequented the sporting events of many of his friends children and grandchildren, cheering especially loud for his favorite team of all, the WSU Cougars.  Anyone who ever had a friendship with Jim will absolutely miss his incredible smile and soul.  Jim, no one will forget you.  He was always such a wonderful guy, he was so happy, and his hugs were the best!

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Verne and LaVerne Bannon; his daughter, Sherri, and his sister, Kathy.

James is survived by his loving wife, Debbie; his sister, Betty (Terry) Baxter; his grandson, Devon; his great-granddaughter, Alyssa; his son-in-law, Mike Tomak; granddaughters, Shannon and Bailee Tomak; niece, Tracy Vining and Family- Rod, Jake, Morgan, and Ellie, nephew, Jeff Baxter and family- Kari, Taryn, James, Jon and JJ; mother-in-law, Naomi Palm; Sisters-in-law, Jeanne Ochs and family- Dale, Amber and Sarah and Shari Tyson and family- Liberty, Kylea and Kara, and Brother-in-law Mark Palm and family- Michele, Jessica, Alex, Amelia and Corbin; along with numerous cousins and friends.  Jim's family would like to thank Hospice of Spokane for their wonderful care and support, and Danekas Funeral Chapel for their help and comforting words, both of which have been a great help.

A celebration of Jim's life is being planned for mid-2023, details will be announced at a later date.  Please visit the online memorial and sign the guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com .  Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted in care.