James C. Cornwell

James C. "Jim" Cornwell was born on Sept. 2, 1954 in Madison, Wis. to E. Jim and Darlene Tainter Cornwell. He died on Jan. 1, 2008 at his home in Irrigon, Ore. at the age of 53 with his loving wife Gloria at his side. In 1964 his family moved to Montana and settled in Lincoln County where he grew up.

With his red hair and freckles he was very proud of his Irish and Indian heritage. Jim was proud to follow in his father's footsteps, working as a heavy equipment operator. He worked many jobs throughout Montana, Washington and Oregon. Jim was united in marriage to Gloria Borup Daniels on March 19, 1988 in Troy. They moved to Oregon in 1987 and settled in Irrigon, Ore. in 1988 where they have lived since.

In June 2002, Jim was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He battled his illness with courage and dignity, never giving up hope. With such a positive attitude it was easy to forget just how sick Jim really was. When asked, he would always say he felt good, just a little tired.

He enjoyed riding his 4-wheeler, working on projects in his shop, he was an avid reader, and watched old westerns for hours. Many Saturday mornings were spent in search of yard sales and Sunday evenings were scheduled around watching Ice Road Truckers on television.

His daily routine included calling his circle of many friends and family. Jim was a big man with a heart to match. He had a soft spot for kids and animals, especially his sister's dog, Beasley who he never tired of fattening up with doggie treats and chicken. Jim had a wonderful sense of humor and he could never resist a good teasing when the opportunity presented itself.

Jim is survived by his wife: Gloria Cornwell of Irrigon, Ore.; parents Jim are Darlene Cornwell of Troy; sons Joe Daniels and his wife Susan of Roseville, Calif., and Terry Daniels of Libby; sister Donna Bush and her husband Mike of Kennewick, Wash.; and four grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Lawrence and Marie Germain Tainter, paternal grandparents Sam and Ethel Clark Cornwell; and uncles Lawrence Tainter Jr. and Albert Tainter.

A memorial service celebrating Jim's life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2008 at the Troy Church of God 218 E. Kalispell Ave. in Troy with family friend and Pastor Gene Bushnell officiating.

There are not enough words to describe how much Jim meant to us or just how much he will be missed.

Burns Mortuary of Hermiston, Ore. is in care of arrangements.