James "Jim" Whooley

James Jim D. Whooley, 82, passed away after a lengthy illness at Bee Hive Homes on Tuesday, June 16, 2015.There will be a private family service at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Schnider Funeral Home.Jim was born on February 13, 1933 in Billings to Jim and Alice Whooley. He grew up in Billings with his brother John and had many fond memories of growing up and living near Pioneer Park. They went to baseball games every summer and sledding during the winter.He graduated from Billings Central High School. After graduation, he attended the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, graduating with a Bachelors degree in 1957. While attending St. Thomas he belonged to ROTC and after graduation, he entered the United States Air Force commissioned as a First Lieutenant. He was stationed in Japan with a mobile squadron. They traveled throughout the Far East. He was honorably discharged in 1959.In 1961, he married Marjorie Lane at St. Rose Catholic Church in Dillon. In 1963, they were blessed with a son Jim in and a son Brian in 1964. They had a happy marriage and together they shared life, family, friends, and their faith.Jim later received a Masters degree from the University of Montana and was a member of the first faculty when the original vocational education school opened in Great Falls. He was in the Career Guidance Department and student services. When he retired he was at CMR High School working in the Career Guidance area.He enjoyed traveling to visit his family, as his family meant everything to him. He and his wife took many trips to the east and west coast to visit family. He was a big sports fan and followed his favorite teams: Notre Dame, Denver Broncos, and the Grizzlies. He was a lifelong golfer and always looked forward to the beginning of golf season each spring. Music played an important part in his life. He was also a member of Holy Spirit Parish for many years.His beloved son, Jim died suddenly, less than a year ago.Jim is survived by his loving wife, Margie; son Brian (Mary) and granddaughters Meghan and Lauren all of Philadelphia; brother, Dr. John (Clara) Whooley of Eau Claire, WI; sisters-in-law Rosemary Kampschrer of Seattle and Eileen Lane of Dillon; and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents; a son; brothers-in-law Keith Kampschrer and Joe Lane.The family would like to thank Kristina, a special caregiver who showed such compassion; Kathleen, his dedicated and faithful nurse practitioner; Sue, his wonderful Hospice nurse and Sister Rita, a volunteer with hospice patients. She was such a comfort to him with her soft spoken way.Donations in Jims memory are suggested to Peace Hospice, 1101 26th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405.