James Daniel King was born in the quiet rural town of Bucyrus, Ohio on December 3 rd , 1948. He was the second child of John and Mary Jane King. His older brother is John Thaddeus King, his younger sister is Laura Ellen King Westrich, and his youngest brother is Thomas Earl King.

From the very start, James was always adventurous. He spent most of his time outside hiking, fishing, canoeing, playing tennis, and spending time on Lake Erie. Even through high school, his love of activity made him one of the best football, basketball, and track athletes in town.

As James grew older, he took up life in Columbus, Ohio, where he studied at Ohio State University. It was there that he earned his degree in Psychology, ran a thriving business on the edge of campus, and met the love of his life; Mae Yuki Evanko. From t he beginning of their relationship, Mae was his heart and soul. Together they travelled throughout the United States, the Bahamas, and parts of Japan, Europe, and Mexico. Their home however was still in Ohio. Whenever they returned, there was always a large group of friends waiting for them. They hosted lots of parties, and were constantly organizing group events such as yard games and boating on the lake.

In the early 1980's, James fell in love with the idea of moving to the mountains. After much convincing, he was able to get Mae on board. Then one time after a weekend ski trip in Colorado, they went home, quit their jobs, sold their possessions, and moved to Steamboat Springs. It was here that their only son, Alexander Thomas King was born. James was a loving and supportive father. His favorite pastime was being with Alex in all his stages of life. James was such an amazing father, that regardless of whatever personal issue he was facing, he only ever treated his son with complete love and support. Alex always came first, and James would go above and beyond to meet his son's needs. James' greatest pride in life was watching who his son grew up to be.

As the years went by, life continued for James here in the valley. Despite his growing health issues, James always remained a compassionate man. He was gentle, and loving to those he knew. Most of his actions showed he cared more for those around him, than for himself. The hardest part of James' life was his wife's 16 month battle with cancer, which ended in her death in 2011. Although the loss of Mae was devastating, it didn't destroy the things which made him great. His compassion for others, and his commitment to family and friends persisted through his final days.

For those who knew him well, it's sad to think of life without his presence. His passing leaves a hole in our hearts. Thank you for being the strong man you were. We love you, and we miss you. Rest in peace.