James Banghart

On May 25, 2011 we said goodbye to James A. Banghart.     He was a strong, 90 year old unpretentious man with a sweet and generous spirit. We appreciated him because he was a good man and he could fix almost anything. Please join us for a celebration of Jim's life on Saturday June 4 at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church 531 South College, Fort Collins: and reception immediately following at Rigden Farm 2350 Limon Drive, Fort Collins. Jim began his life on January 2, 1921, when he was born to Arthur and Maude in Denver, Colorado. He lived in Denver until he went to College at Colorado State University, then known as Colorado A & M, where he graduated with a degree in Dairy Science. World War II was in full swing, so he married his college sweetheart, Margaret Ann Graham, and began his service in the U.S. Army. While he was in the Army his first son, Jay, was born. At the end of the War he returned to Fort Collins and began his career. Dairy Science led him to Utah where he obtained a Master of Science degree in Dairy. He taught at Colorado A & M as an Associate Professor. Most of his career was spent working as the Chief of the Dairy Division for the State of Colorado. During this time he and Margaret had their daughter, Sally. In subsequent years Jim was also blessed with 4 grandchildren, Eric, Pete, Brian and Jamie, and three great grandchildren, Noa, Avery, and Emma. Jim retired from the State of Colorado and began another chapter in his life. He purchased an RV and he and Margaret Ann traveled through the United States. Their travels took them to all but one state.     He and Margaret loved the mountains for fishing, picnics, hiking and skiing. Jim kept busy volunteering for Meals on Wheels, Saints, and Lifeline. He was an active member of the Elks lodge and enjoyed playing cards with the guys. Jimmy lived a good life and was loved by his family and friends. He had a painful bout of cancer in the last years , which finally got the best of him. Until his death he was an active resident at Rigden Farm and enjoyed life to the fullest. His attitude was positive and he was a trooper until the end. We are happy we had Jim in our lives. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pathways Hospice in care of Goes Funeral Care, 3665 Canal Drive, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524