James D. Rooks

James was a lifelong resident of the Grand Valley and third generation farmer. He graduated from Grand Junction High School in 1959, and attended Mesa College before receiving his bachelor's degree from Colorado State University in 1964.

The eldest of three children, Jim spent many hours helping his father and uncle work the farm ground and take care of the livestock. He was an active 10 year 4-H member, serving in many leadership roles. It was through 4-H work that he met his future wife, Cleo. They were married on June 6, 1966, in Collbran, Colorado, and had three sons. Jim took over the family farming operations in 1965 and built his home there.

There seemed to be almost nothing that Jim could not do. He raised corn and alfalfa, grew peaches, pie cherries, and apples. He took care of the registered angus cow-calf operation and custom fed cattle for many people. Jim took great pride in being able to do and fix many things. He built his own farm implements as needed, performed maintenance on his tractors, and found time to help the neighbors. He served on numerous boards including the Mesa County 4-H Foundation, Orchard Mesa Little League, Central Orchard Mesa Volunteer Fire Department, Orchard Mesa Irrigation District, Mesa County Farm Bureau, and Ute Water. Jim also managed the Orchard Mesa Irrigation District in the 1990's.

Jim enjoyed watching his boys play sports, and would put the farming on hold so that he could watch the last inning of a baseball game or the final quarter of a football or basketball contest. He liked to watch his grandchildren play their youth sports and barrel racing events.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of over 55 years, Cleo; son, Mark (Shari) of Wichita, Kansas; son, Darin of Grand Junction; son, Bryan (Erin) of Grand Junction; and grandchildren Blake, Grace and Seth.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 2nd at 2 PM at Martin Mortuary in Grand Junction.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jim's name to the Central Orchard Mesa Volunteer Fire Department 3253 B 1/2 Road Grand Junction, CO 81503.