Jim Davidson

Jim Davidson, 71, a lifetime resident of the Kootenai Valley, died Friday, July 7, 2006, in Libby.

Jim was born Dec. 31, 1934, in Libby to E.M. "Snowy" and Marguerite Harris Davidson.

He graduated from Libby High School in 1952.

Jim worked for J. Neils Lumber Co., St. Regis and Champion International in many capacities including in environmental affairs and as a fire and safety engineer until his retirement in 1991.

He and his wife, Neesia, owned and operated Henry's Restaurant in Libby for a number of years.

Jim had been a 30-year member of Libby Volunteer Fire Department and had served as chief as well as chief of the St. Regis and Champion International fire brigades.

He also served on Libby City Council for many years, belonged to Montana Firefighters Association and had served as president of Montana Fire Chiefs Association.

A lifelong musician, Jim played piano in musical combos in the area. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting and boating, particularly in the San Juan Islands. Jim especially enjoyed his relationship with friends, many of which were retired firemen.

Survivors include his wife in Libby; a son, Dr. Steve Davidson and wife, Patti, of Libby; sisters Judy Lundstrom of Libby and Karen (Kim) Davidson of Los Angeles; and several nieces and nephews.

Services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 12, at Christ Lutheran Church with the Rev. Les Nelson officiating. Interment will follow at the City of Libby Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St. John Lutheran Hospital Foundation, 350 Louisiana Ave., Libby, MT, 59923, or Libby Volunteer Fire Department Memorial Fund.

Nelson & Vial Funeral Home handled arrangements.