James A. Shaffer Jr., 90

James A. 'Jim' Shaffer Jr., 90, of Kalispell passed away Sunday, Feb. 24, 2008, at Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 29, at the Immaculate Conception Church in Polson, with Father James Connor as celebrant. Urn burial will be afterward in the Lakeview Cemetery in Polson, in the Shaffer family plot.

Jim was born May 11, 1917, in Chicago to adventurous parents, James A. Shaffer Sr., and Stella Nelson Shaffer, the last homesteaders of Lake County. 'Shipmaster' James Alexander Shaffer Jr., has passed, his life full of travel, friends, and projects. His parents homeschooled him in the family's lakeshore cabin for his elementary education. He graduated from Polson High School.

Jim was preceded in death by his loving spouses, Frances and Marguerite. He was also preceded in death by sons, James Alexander Shaffer 'Sonny Jim,' and David Morris.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia M. Shaffer; and his daughters, Stella Larson and Brooks of Santa Barbara, Calif., Melissa Miller of Newport, R.I., Roberta 'Lori' Dapelo and Scott of Santa Rosa, Calif., and Donna Henderson and James of Brookings, Ore. He is also survived by a large and loving family of grandchildren, Charles Larson and Janette, Alexander Larson and Kelley, Jason Larson and Joanne, Inger Larson Taylor and Michael, Kelley Francis Larsen, Bret Morris and Kym, and Jill Morris. Jim has five great-granddaughters, Melody, Oona, Olivia, Charlotte and Neve. He also is survived by his great-grandsons, Cody and Jackson. He is mourned by many steprelatives, and a community of friends, colleagues and professional associates.

The family suggests that any memorial contributions be sent to The Montana Tech Foundation, 1300 W. Park St., Butte, MT 59701. In the memo, please note Koch/ McGlashen Endowment Fund.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Jim's family. You are invited to go to www.johnsonmortuary.com to offer condolences and sign Jim's guest book.