James B Harder

James “Jim” B. Harder, 76, of Pocatello, Idaho, passed away on November 10, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 4, 1948, in American Falls, Idaho, to Eldon and Helen Harder, Jim was raised in Aberdeen and graduated from Aberdeen High School in 1967.

In January 1969, Jim enlisted in the United States Army. He completed his training at Fork Rucker, Alabama, where he earned a diploma in UH-1 Repair. He served with distinction in the Vietnam War from August 1969 to August 1970. As a helicopter crew chief with the 118th AHC Bandits, Jim flew on Bandit 2 during his service in Vietnam. A favorite saying among his crew was “Love by choice, live by chance.” 

His service earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Air Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze service stars. He also received the Army Achievement Medal and the Commendation Medal. Jim was always proud of his military service and continued his commitment to his country in the U.S. Army National Guard.

Jim married Twila Johnson on July 8, 1972, at the Chapel of Transfiguration in Moose, Wyoming. Over the next 52 years, they shared a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Twila; their loving daughters, Janie Higgins (Nick) and Lindsay Suthers (Jeff); his adored grandsons, Matthew and Eli Suthers; his mother, Helen Harder; his brother, Stan Harder; and many close friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Eldon Harder, and his brother, Gene Harder.

Jim was a man of many talents and interests. He had a long and successful career as a parts specialist, becoming an expert in vehicles of all sizes and, more recently, large equipment parts. His knowledge and skills were widely respected, and he was frequently sought out for his advice. He instilled a strong work ethic in his daughters, teaching them the values of dedication, hard work, and perseverance.

Jim had a great love for the outdoors, finding peace in nature, which he often considered a special, sacred place. He loved hunting, fishing, and exploring the mountains, as well as the desert near his childhood home. A favorite memory for his family was the time they went on a family vacation to the Oregon Coast, where Jim went salmon fishing. The family had to buy a new cooler just to bring home the big fish, and Jim loved telling the story of how they had to rearrange the trunk to fit it in.

Jim’s passions also included cars—he lovingly restored a 1967 Mustang from a barn find into a beautiful machine—and he enjoyed attending stock car races. He had a special fondness for Huey helicopters. Jim was a lover of animals, particularly dogs, and was known for his kindness and compassion. He was also known for his sense of humor and the simple joys in life, such as reading the weekly funnies and sharing a good laugh.

Jim was known to make friends wherever he went, and when his daughters were younger, they often found themselves waiting for him to finish talking to yet another person at the county fair or store. He never knew a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel welcome.

Jim’s family will forever treasure the countless memories they shared—whether it was the laughter-filled camping trips (like the time his eldest daughter unknowingly drank a crunchy bug in her hot chocolate), the care and attention he poured into building a Barbie Dream House for his daughters, or the steadfast dedication he showed while helping his youngest daughter rehabilitate a baby goat born crippled and lame. With a custom sling Jim crafted by hand and his daughter’s daily physical therapy, the little goat not only survived but learned to walk again—a testament to Jim’s hands-on kindness, his unwavering love, and the deep bond he shared with his family.

As empty nesters, Jim and his wife, Twila, loved taking day trips to Bear Lake and the surrounding areas. Jim was always at the wheel, while Twila played the role of navigator, guiding their adventures with a smile. 

He was a man who lived with a full heart and a genuine spirit, and he will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held outdoors, when the weather is warmer in the spring or summer. Details will be shared on this page when available.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a veterans' organization of your choice in Jim’s honor.

Jim’s legacy of love, service, laughter, and the joy of life will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.

Memories and condolences may be shared using the guest book below.