James Tanata

"A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you and were helped by you will remember you when forget-me-nots have withered."

- Charles Spurgeon

James Joseph Tanata, 71, passed peacefully with his family by his side Tuesday, April 5, 2016, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, after suffering a heart attack the previous Sunday.

James, affectionately called Jim, was born Jan. 16, 1945, in Jamestown, N.D. He was raised on the family farm in Courtenay, N.D., where he worked with his father and brothers until he departed to serve his country in the U.S. Navy, from 1967 to 1969. Upon his honorable discharge, Jim returned to North Dakota, where he met the love of his life, Patricia Hess. They married on Oct. 6, 1972, and had three children. It was during the early part of their marriage that Jim took up the trade of carpentry, which proved to be a true gift and talent. In 1979, Jim and family relocated to Idaho, where he spent the remainder of his days working, hunting, fishing and, of course, his most favorite thing of all, watching his grandsons' sporting events.

Jim enjoyed the simple things in life and was passionate about his family. He was absolutely devoted to his wife and loved her unconditionally, and the fruit of his character, integrity and work ethic are evident in his children and grandchildren. They were the light of his life and he poured into them constantly. Jim never knew a stranger and was the best friend anyone could ever ask for. You would be hard-pressed to find a man more kind, strong and humble, and for those of us who knew him, we are far better because of it.

Jim leaves his wife of 43 years, Pat Tanata; his daughter, Shannon (Reece) Hewett; his son, Shawn (Kristin) Tanata; his son, Timothy (Jody) Tanata; and his seven grandsons, Lane, Mason, Keegen, Cooper, Kai, Sawyer and Tucker.

He is survived by his sisters, Barb Skinner, Rosemary Gasal and Peggy Manley; his sister-in-law, Connie Cunningham; and numerous nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Virginia Tanata; and his three brothers, Fred Tanata, Allan Tanata and Tony Tanata.

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at Orchards Community Church in Lewiston. Those wishing to make a contribution in Jim's name may do so to the Pat Rush Memorial Fund in Kendrick; or any organization that supports youth sports.

We will love and miss you, G-pa Bling.