James Drew

James Jim Michael Drew, 67, of Great Falls, passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord September 3, 2017 at Peace Hospice. His children were with him.A celebration of life will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, September 16th at New City Church with a reception to follow. Everyone is welcome.Survivors include his children, Megan Drew (Doug Brumbaugh), Katherine Drew, James Alex (Jenny) Drew, Shad (Jennifer) Wolf, Nathen (Jamie) Wolf and Justen Wolf; and twelve grandchildren, Daniel, Madisyn, Rosalie, James Herschel , Alexandra, Renee, Kaelyn, Jerod, Tylor, Nater, Kaycee and Sarah, all of Great Falls.He is preceded in death by his wife, Dawn Marie (Chase) Drew and his parents.Jim was born August 28, 1950 in Kalispell, MT to James Bud and Anna Drew. He grew up in Somers, MT and graduated from Flathead High School in 1968. Jim served in the Air National Guard for four years. He would then serve 37 years in Civil Service as a computer technician for Malmstrom Air Force Base.In 1984, a woman with 3 children would capture his heart. They married on May 4, 1985. He loved his wife's 3 boys. In Oct. 1986 Jim and Dawn would welcome their brown-eyed girl, Megan. In Dec. 1987, Jim delivered their second daughter, Kaytte, at home in the bathtub. He affectionately called her his bathtub baby. And in April 1990 their family became complete with the birth of James Alexander, Jim's little buddy. He was a very proud father.Jim retired in 2006. After retirement, he pursued his lifelong passion for politics and ran for a seat in the House of Representatives. He didn't win, but that did not deter him from staying active in politics. He went on to serve as an amendments coordinator in Helena and was an active member of several groups and organizations. He was also a frequent contributor to political columns and letters to the editor, even gaining his own little following who enjoyed his witty humor and articulate style.Jim and his family loved spending time at his childhood home on Flathead Lake. Many memories were made of campfires on the beach, jumping off the island, boating, and fishing. Jim made it a priority to take his family on several camping trips every summer. He loved sports, whether it was watching football with his best friends, teaching his girls to play golf or coaching his son's little league team. He played on the church softball team for many years, and he once played basketball riding on a donkey!Everyone was always welcome at the Drew's. Jim and Dawn opened their home to anyone who needed them, from overseas missionaries and church friends, to friends of their own kids'. Everyone was accepted and loved. There was always a home cooked meal with plenty available for the neighborhood kids who made the Drew's house their second home. They used each and every opportunity to show God's love.Jim and Dawn were very active in their church. They organized and cooked amazing meals for special functions and ministries. They led home groups for many years and were a part of the prayer team. Jim continued to serve in these ministries after his wife passed. He derived great pleasure in helping and mentoring others. He was an exceptional teacher and had a special gift for ministering to young adults. The yearly Men's Retreat was a favorite; good food, fellowship and guns.He loved his grandchildren immensely, and they absolutely adored their Papa. He always said, Grandkids are my reward for not killing you kids. BBQs with his family were cherished. Sitting by the fire telling jokes, laughing and listening to music; Jim always singing along asking, Who plays this? He always knew the answer. His favorites included Elvis, Willie Nelson, and The Eagles. Jim loved hosting get togethers. His Santa Maria BBQ was always a popular request. He enjoyed Monday Night Football, his weekly coffee date with the guys, and Sunday brunch with church friends. He was a connoisseur of fine wines and cigars. You could always get him to play a game of Pinochle or Cribbage. He was a member of the Trap and Skeet Club and played on pool, dart, bowling, and horseshoe leagues. He loved to dance.Jim was always supportive and always available, not just for his children, but anyone who called on him. Any venture, dream, worry, heartache, anything...he was always there with prayer, wisdom, advice and encouragement. In all aspects of his life, he lived by faith.Jim leaves behind many friends and family who love and miss him tremendously. But for those of us who believe in Christ, we know that this time without him is only for a season. We rejoice in the knowledge that Jim and Dawn are reunited in Heaven, dancing together at the feet of Jesus, and that we, too, will be reunited with them in Eternity.We love you, Dad.