James Pitman

AMERICAN FALLS - James "Jim" Doyle Pitman, 70, of American Falls, passed away on Friday, February 11, 2011, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born on June 19, 1940, in Annis, Idaho, to Elmer and Lola Pitman, the second of six children. He grew up and attended school in Rigby, graduating in 1958. He was drafted into the U.S. Army the18th of August 1965 and was honorably discharged 19 months later 28th of March 1967. He married Mary Ann Weekes in Archer, Idaho, on May 7, 1959. They were later sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple on May 10, 2001. Together they had seven children; Trina, Jim, Devanne, Natalie, Michelle, Michael, and Shawn. Jim was a hard worker. In his younger years he worked as a milkman. After his military service, Jim went to work for the J.R. Simplot, Don Plant as a special operator. He retired in 2005. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served as the High Priest Group Leader, and worked in Extraction. Jim loved horses and raised some of the best thoroughbreds in the area. He also loved hunting; camping, and fishing and playing all sorts of sports with his children, especially golf. Jim was faithful to family, work, and church. He never missed a day of work and was an amazing multi-tasker. At work he was able to track multiple operations simultaneously. He is survived by his wife Mary Ann of American Falls; daughter Trina (Bill) McCallum of Pocatello; son Jim (LaQuita) Pitman of Richfield, ID; daughter Michelle Gifford of American Falls; son Michael Pitman of Canby, MN; son Shawn Pitman of Pocatello; mother Lola (A.J.) McNeece of American Falls; sister Deanna (Guy) McMillin of Boise, ID; brother Lowell (Gina) Pitman of Deary, ID; brother LaVere (Keziah) Pitman of Blanchard, ID; 21 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his father, daughters Devanne and Natalie, two brothers, granddaughter Jessica, and great-grandson Landon. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, February 16, 2011, at the American Falls LDS 1 st Ward Chapel, with Bishop Keith Phillips conducting. A visitation will be held from 9:30 am - 10:30 am prior to the funeral service at the church. Military rites will follow at the Archer-Sutton Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Colonial Funeral Home (208) 233-1500. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.Colonial-FuneralHome.com.