James Stappler Obituary

Council - Obituary for James (Jim) Stappler

Jim started his life long love of hunting and fishing in this world at International Falls, Minnesota he was the youngest of 6 children. His father Tony was in Border Patrol and they moved frequently as needed for the job finally settling in Boise. Jim always said he had the best childhood and parents.

Jim was a natural athlete at anything he tried and was very competitive. Betty and Jim competed at everything they did together whether it was fishing, hunting or horseshoes. Many bets were placed between them.

After graduating from Borah High School and then college, with the help of Walt DeBlieck Jim was hired onto the Boise Fire Department as a Fireman/ EMT. Jim loved his job and many of the men that influenced his life. As a Captain Jim was always concerned about the safety of his crew and he never missed a chance to brag on them to me. I believe he influenced them on and off the job.

Jim married Betty in 1989 and he was proud of his 35 years of marriage. If asked how long he had been married his response with a laugh was always "since dirt". Jim and Betty spent years horseback riding in the back country and dragging the kids along, hunting and fishing. So many adventures and stories to share from Jarbidge NV to Montana. He influenced many kids over the years also as he helped Betty raise her boys, nieces, nephews and grandkids. Just a natural authority figure who was strong, quiet, loving and disciplined. When Jim retired he jumped right into building our dream house on 10 acres in Council. He knew every inch of the house and really loved the building process and all the friends he made along the way. Jim truly loved the Council area and the people whom he met and laughed with there. Jim passed away at his much loved home in Council on November 14th at the age of 60. He fought hard the last 2 years of illness and his wicked sense of humor never faded. Jim was a rare simple man. You could take his word to the bank, he believed in commitment, and he had such a self confidence that just made you feel safe. Always the voice of reason with his calm manner in any situation. Easter was always a special day for Jim as he and Betty would walk up Lizard Butte for the Easter sunrise service where his favorite song was Old Rugged Cross. When asked several weeks before his death if he would change anything about his life? Jim said " I have no regrets and I would do it all over again", Betty and the family want to say a special thank you to all of the caring medical professionals, the many wonderful friends in Council and his brothers on the Fire Department who supported us through this difficult time. In The Lord's time, by the Lords Will. "I will see you on the other side Stop!

Local Services will be held Thursday December 5, at 10:00. Deerflat Church 17703 Beet Rd. Caldwell in the Youth Room. Bring a memory if you wish to share