James Charles Parker, 62

James (Jim) Charles Parker, a resident of Libby, unexpectedly passed away June 26, 2021, at the age of 62. He was born Jan. 30, 1959, in Missoula to Don and Teri (Larson) Parker. He was one of three children.

He attended Jackson High School in Portland, Ore., and Cherry Creek High School in Denver. Jim worked for the railroad for three decades, many of those years with Burlington Northern Santa Fe, before a back injury forced him into early retirement.

Jim was a gregarious man best known for being quite the storyteller. He could light up a room with his expressions, tall tales and colorful language. He had a story for everything and a nickname for all.

Jim was hardheaded, sarcastic and always had to have the last word. He was the type of man that knew exactly what he stood for and had no problem letting people know what his principles were. His heart was huge. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it.

Jim could always be found in the outdoors. It was where he was happiest. He loved hunting for “critters” big and small, fishing and shooting. Other passions included his friends and the woman he loved. He would burn the tires down on anything that went fast.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother. He is survived by his father, Don (Kay); his loving partner, Rose Richardson; children, Daniel and Nicole (Mitch); stepchildren, Jenny and Julie; brother, Tim (Jay); sister, Kristi (Sasha); grandchildren, Landon, Caroline and Miles; nephews, Jon (Heidi) and Dylan; nieces, Katie (Joel) and Sam (Andrea); and many loving friends who became family.

Memorial donations may be made in Jim’s honor to the National Rifle Association at https://donate.nra.org/donate

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Schnackenberg Funeral Home in Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.