“If there comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart forever.”
James “Jim” H. Westbrook passed away on August 7, 2021 in Missoula, Montana.
Jim was born in Akron, Ohio on January 20, 1947. He was a beloved husband, brother, uncle, grandpa (Papa) and friend to many. If you needed anything he would always be there to help.
Jim was a U.S. Army Veteran serving 3 tours Vietnam and 1 tour in Korea. He joined the Army at the young age of 17, with his mother’s approval. He retired as a Staff Sargent in 1977 with 13 + years of service.
His military service took him to many parts of the U.S and overseas. Such as Germany, Korea, Vietnam, Laos, Russia and Iran.
After he came home, he held many jobs working for the forest service, on oil rigs and construction. Lover of the outdoors Jim was always looking for his next best fishing hole or hunting grounds. Jim loved all animals and was often called an Animal whisperer! He rescued many cats and loved each one. He loved building things, helping his neighbors and gardening.
Jim is proceeded in death by his parent’s, Mary J. Hosfeld & James H. Westbrook, Sr. His mother-in-law Arlene M. Larsen. His sister’s, Jeanne M. Crawford & Joyce L. Moreno, brother Ricky L. Hosfeld, brother-in-law Arthur L. Crawford, nephew Anthony B. Crawford and niece Amanda M. Browning.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Diane Westbrook. Step daughter Ami Larsen and grandchildren, Halah Larsen-Hanson and Ricky Hanson & family. Sisters, Donna Martinez & family, Helen Steiger & family, Debra Hosfeld & family, Mary Mitchell & family & Della Davis & family. Diane's Father Harold and her sisters Lynn, Kari, Roxanne, Kristen and Juliann, and their families will greatly miss him as well.
"Goodbyes are not forever, are not the end; it simply means I'll miss you until we meet again."
Jim’s life will be celebrated on Thursday, August 19, 2021 at 11:00 am at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula, Montana with full military honors.
The service will be live streamed below for those unable to attend and posted on the Garden City Funeral Home website.