James “Jim” Robert Ruland
James “Jim” Robert Ruland was born on September 9, 1941, to Andy and Lucille (Morris) Ruland in Fort Morgan, Colorado. Jim was raised in Ballantine, MT, and spent most of his life hanging out in the “Project.” He was always known as a hard worker, and he got his first job working as a ranch hand at age 14. Jim got his GED through Huntley Project High School and went on to join the Navy during the Vietnam War Era in 1962. He was an Airman and was stationed at the Naval Air Station in Whidbey Island, Washington. Serving on an aircraft carrier, he was a member of Heavy Attack Squadron Four. Jim was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and transferred to the Naval Reserve in 1964. He served there until 1966. He was a proud veteran that served his country well.
Jim was friend of Bill W. and a huge advocate and member of AA. He believed in the steps and helped many others along the way. He made many great friends through AA and supported them through their recovery. Jim had been sober for 25 years at the time of his death.
Jim lived in several different places throughout his life depending where his work took him. He owned and operated Jim’s Painting and Septic Service and spent 30 plus years driving his self proclaimed “Turd Hearse.” He was a gracious landlord and a faithful poop pumper. He was never too busy to help out a friend in need.
In 2004, Jim started dating Jo Larson, and they became inseparable for the next 16 years. Jim enjoyed dancing, going out to eat, taking trips to Worden, keeping up on his grandkids and “step” grandkids, connecting through cards and letters on the holidays, and going to the rodeo. He loved fishing and hunting, and he loved refinishing antiques. Jim enjoyed taking trips to see friends all over the country. Relationships were very important to him, and he will be remembered as a genuine friend.
Jim died at St. Vincent Hospital on March 9th, 2020, after a short illness that was complicated by his COPD. The family would like to thank the staff at St. V’s and Riverstone Hospice for their wonderful care in Jim’s last days.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Andy and Lucille; and his siblings, Shirley, William “Suggs,” Charlie “Chuck,” Andrew, Wade, and Steve. He leaves behind his daughters, Jeanette (Matt) Uland, and Jan Lenington; his grandchildren, Ella and Ian Uland; his special friend, Jo Larson; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 23rd at 1pm at Smith’s Downtown Chapel.
