James L. Schreckendgust
On February 8, 2016, James L. Schreckendgust left this earth in search of a more heavenly place to harvest timber.
Jim was born to Charles and Xavier “Toots” Schreckendgust on August 20, 1934 in a small cabin in Florence, MT. One of six kids, Jim grew up quickly and stepped in to help take care of the family after his father passed away.
He met and married Gladys Swigert, and together they raised four children before Gladys succumbed to cancer. Jim remarried and added to his family when he and his wife Sandy welcomed another baby girl along with Sandy’s three children.
On October 11, 1980, Jim married Rosie at a small ceremony in St. Regis, MT, adding three more children into the combined family. He and Rosie continued to expand their family by opening their home to 13 international exchange students over a ten-year period.
He spent his life logging amongst a grand cast of characters, always providing for his family and teaching life lessons in a most unconventional manner. His ability to find good in others and offer forgiveness added to a long list of lifetime friendships. Music was a big part of Jim’s life, and he was known for loving both kinds of music: Country and Western. He was quick to initiate an impromptu jam session among his many friends and family members who also shared his love and talent for music.
Jim is survived by his wife Rosie; son Jimbo and his wife Judy; daughter Pam; daughter Tina and her husband Randy; son Charlie and his husband Steve; daughter Marcia; daughter Julie and her partner Jorge; son Eric; son Chris and his wife Lila; son Eddy and his wife Michelle; daughter Carrie and her husband Mike; daughter Christy and her husband Tim; grandchildren James, Denise, Jason, Chandra, Alexis, Cassy, Joshua, Christian, Ryley and Emma; great-grandchildren Taylor, Brady, Austin, Jadyn, Jacob and Macie; brother Charles and his wife Lorelei; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his first wife Gladys; brothers John, Delbert and Bill; and sisters Mary Ellen and Dlorah.
A celebration of life is planned for Sunday, February 14, 2016 at the St. Regis Community Center at 11:00 a.m. immediately followed by a brief graveside service and a potluck meal. We welcome anyone to come and share their memories of our beloved dad and husband. In lieu of flowers, we ask that any donations be made to the Music Department at St. Regis School.