“Jim” was born October 7, 1952, in Minot, North Dakota to Robert and Dorothy (Callaghan) Tallman. Against the odds (and Father Cook), he graduated from Bishop Ryan High School in 1970. While still a mere pup, he began his railroad career with the Great Northern, following in the path of his father and both grandfathers.
In 1972, Uncle Sam required “Jimmy’s” service in the United States Army, stationing him in Frankfurt, Germany. In 1974, he returned to the bright lights of the “Magic City.” He could often be found at the Barley Pop, golfing, fishing, or hosting his own “wild parties” at his old place on 8th St. (which he fondly remembered and boasted about).
He married Valda (Jessen) Druce March 7, 1985, in Minot. They moved to Norwich, ND, where they raised their children, Zac and Camille, rottweilers, cats, and many other animals through the years.
“Tallguy” retired from BNSF (formerly BN, formerly GN) after many years of begrudging service. Following retirement, and having suffered too many North Dakota winters, they moved to Chandler, Arizona in 2011.
A Renaissance man, if you will, he enjoyed golfing, watching reruns of Perry Mason or old Westerns with his cats (especially his Mario), the Packers (depending on the season and in spite of believing all sports were “rigged”), having a toke on the patio, beer, puzzles, and genealogy research. He was also a connoisseur of chocolate chip cookies, and ice cream. He always had some project around the house or yard to tinker with.
Jim is survived by Mario and the rest of the menagerie of cats. He is also survived by wife of 39 years, Valda; children, Camille and Zachary; sisters, Mary Borman, Elizabeth Banks, and Barb Knight; mother-in-law, Norma Borden; Father-in-law, Valdis Ozolins; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Coleen Tallman, Leasa Vedbraaten, Laura (Tom) Dravitz, Norma Jean (John) Barrus, Maija (Chip) Benson, Mahra Seward, Erik (Tamee) Hussar-Ozolins; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, grandcats, and granddog.
Tallguy was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Dorothy, sisters, Judith and Theresa, brothers, William and David; stepmother-in-law Shirley Ozolins: brothers-in-law, Dennis Borman, Earl Banks, Wayne Knight, and Lawrence Jessen; his kitty, Luigi; and his dog, Gracie.
At Jimmy’s request, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, he preferred memorials go to helping his four-legged friends through any favourite animal charity.
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