Jim and I got to know each other when we where about 8 years old. I remember we were in Cub Scouts together. If our parents would let us, we would ride our bicycles back and forth to each other's house. That was kind of risky since the sidewalk was only about two feet away from Rt.20 and when the cars and big trucks went by they would almost blow us over. We rode my brother's horse and camped out in our tents in the back yard. I remember one night that we camped out we watched for Sputnik and actually saw.it! As we got older, we double dated a few times and after graduation he went in the Navy. I believe he was on the submarine USS Nautilus and was one of the first people to go under the North Pole for weeks or months at a time. Scary if you ask me!! Jim and I lost contact after that until one day I heard he had passed. I believe he had gotten married and had a family. If anyone can fill in the blanks that would be great.
Jim was a great guy and a loyal friend when we where kids. Thank him for his service in your thoughts and prayers.
Jim was a neighbor down the street, and rode my bus. We rode the bus all through our school years, and what a fun guy he was. Always had the best smile.....Gone way too soon....
John Begalke
Carol Bates (Wills)