James Jim Earl Stanard, 73
James “Jim” Earl Stanard, of Kalispell, passed away in his home on Feb. 22, 2018.
He was born on Aug. 12, 1944, in Great Falls, to Earl Watt Stanard and Cora Retta Klingler. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Jeana Dee (Stowell) Stanard, their children: Sherrilyn Jean (Stanard) McDonald, Christina Ann (Stanard) Souza and Jonathon Earl Stanard, along with their spouses, 11 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and dear sister, Carol (Stanard) Abercrombie. He is predeceased by his parents, his sister Lynn (Stanard) Lund and great-grandchild Devont McDonald Beckstrand.
Jim was a devoted member of the LDS church and served in the LDS South American Andes mission as well as numerous callings throughout his life. Education was highly valued by Jim. He attended Brigham Young University, Montana State University and earned a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Oregon. He then enjoyed teaching others and delighted in interacting with colleagues and hundreds of students during his career of 35 years as a professor of voice and composition at Humboldt State University in Arcata, California. Jim was a founding member of the Humboldt Light Opera Company. He enjoyed the many roles he played as well as directing numerous works. After retiring from HSU, he returned to Montana where he directed the Glacier Chorale for eight seasons. Jim loved composing hymns, anthems, choral works and programs, several of which were selected to be performed and recognized on Temple Square of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Jim had a great love of nature and animals that he enjoyed sharing with others. He especially appreciated having time with his family camping, fly fishing, golfing, having picnics and exploring the beautiful natural scenery of North Western United States, Canada and Alaska.
Family was central to Jim’s life. He helped create meaningful family memories due to his priority for maintaining traditions and creating special occasions. He leaves a legacy of compositions, recordings, and also children, grandchildren, students and friends who now enjoy music in their own lives. Jim was a quick wit and loved to laugh and help others to laugh. Jim spent the last five days of his life in his home, surrounded by his beloved wife and three children. They enjoyed prayer, meals, games, conversations, and humor.
There will be a visitation held for James from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 26, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory. Funeral service for James will be held Friday, March 2, in Salt Lake City, Burial will take place at Bountiful City Cemetery. The Salt Lake City funeral arrangements are being handled by Stark’s Funeral Home. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.
Please visit www.jgfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family.