James Racicot

James Victor Racicot, 71, died Saturday, Dec. 30, 2006, in Kalispell.

Jim was born on March 4, 1935, in Libby, to Johanna Ludvikson Racicot and Victor Racicot.

Jimmy or "Uncle Jimmy" as he was affectionately called, was raised and educated in Libby and, along with his twin brother Chuck, entered the U.S. Air Force in 1952. He served 20 years in the Air Force, serving two tours in Germany and a one-year tour in Vietnam. He also served 20 years with the Montana Department of Transportation as a law enforcement officer, retiring in 1994.

Jim loved the outdoors and was especially proud of his hunting exploits. He was an avid competition pistol shooter and participated in many area matches.

His legacy will always be the beloved family homestead on Pipe Creek. Known as the "Cabin Master," Jim dedicated his energies to preserving the cabin and its history for future generations. He loved to relax on the deck, listen to jazz music and enjoy nature. His many furry and feathered friends never went hungry.

Jim was proud to be a life member of Masonic Lodge No. 85, Kootenai Valley Shrine Club, United States Practical Shooting Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, National Rifle Association, Montana Rifle Association, Montana Rifle and Pistol Association, Mullen Pass Masonic Lodge No. 1866 (charter member, Helena), and Bannack Masonic Lodge No. 1 (charter member, Virginia City).

A lifelong Democrat, Jim was also a regular member of Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, S.J. USA, 32 Degree, Missoula; Algeria Shriners, A.A.O.N.M.S. of Helena, Noble; Vista Chapter No. 44 Order of the Easter Star, Columbia Falls; Knights Templars, Cyrene No. 10 KSP MT; Crytic Council, Flathead No. 15; Royal Arch Masons No. 13, Kalispell.

He is survived by twin brother Charles (Chuck) Racicot and wife Sharon, brother Dave Stephenson and wife Carole Anne, and sister Linda Braley and husband Gene, all of Libby; nephews Greg Racicot of Lexington, Ky., Jason Braley of Spokane, Wash., and Brent Stephenson of San Diego, Calif.; nieces Jeana Wood of Libby and Heather Jo Stephenson of San Francisco, Calif.; and various grandnephews and grandnieces.

His ever-present smile and unique sense of humor as well as his caring attitude will be missed by the many who knew and loved him.

Masonic services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, at the Libby Masonic Lodge followed by military graveside services at the Libby Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at the lodge.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nelson and Vial Funeral Home.

Memorials may be sent to the scholarship fund of the Libby Masonic Lodge No. 85, 1218 Utah Avenue, Libby, MT 59923.