James M Fernald

Jim graduated from Lakewood High School in 1975. He received a math degree from Northwester University in 1979 and a math education degree from the University of Minnesota 1982. He received a Master's in Education at the University of Colorado at Denver in 1992.

He taught math in the Aurora Public School, mostly at Rangeview High School from 1982 - 2004. He finished his teaching career at his alma mater, Lakewood High School, teaching math and TOK from 2004 - 2014. After retirement, he still substituted at Lakewood High and attended many school events. His favorite job was helping to plan graduation activities.

Aquatics was a very important part of Jim's life. He became an American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) in 1974. He mainly worked for City of L:akewood aquatics from 1975 until his death. He was very proud when he became a Water Safety Instructor Trainer in 2006. He was a member of the Colorado Association of Swimming Officials (CASO) from 1982 until his death, He served as district president for many years. Many swimmer and divers remember him as one of their favorite officials. He was also the head official and league meet referee for the Foothills Swimming Association (FSA) for many years.

Jim was an avid theatre attendee. Many friends looked forward to his musical and play reviews which he would post on Facebook. He was a season ticket holder for the Denver Center and Arvada Center for many years. He was also a season ticket holder for the Colorado Avalanche since day one in 1995. Jim was a very proud Democrat, and supported many Democratic candidates over his life. His great hope was to see Joe Biden elected as president in 2020. Jim was well known for his public comments at Jeffco School Board meetings. No one ever quite knew what he would talk about or what position he would take. He loved holidays, and had decoration for even the most obscure holidays. He would always color coordinate his clothes for holiday celebrations.

Although he leaves behind no family, he leaves many friends and colleagues. Thank you for a life well lived.