James Vincent Baiar, 80

James Vincent Baiar passed away on May 1, 2019, at the age of 80 years.

Jim was born on Dec. 19, 1938, in Spokane to Vincent and Ann Baiar. He grew up in Spokane and graduated high school in 1956.

Some of his fondest memories were spending time farming in the Spokane Valley with his Italian grandfather. He was very proud of his Italian heritage.

After graduation, Jim enlisted in the Marine Reserves and attended the University of Idaho, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in forestry management. He moved to Livingston, Montana, and started work with the U.S. Forest Service. He was transferred to the Flathead National Forest in 1967 and moved to Columbia Falls where he lived the rest of his life. He left the Forest Service after a few years and started his own business, Halfmoon Rifle Shop, where he manufactured rifle barrels. He passed on his skill and passion for the trade to his grandson, Michael.

Jim married Ginger on Feb. 14, 1988, and they spent 31 years together until his passing.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Ginger; his three sons, Jeff (Jody) of Columbia Falls, Tom of Durango, Colorado, and Ron (Patricia) of Pullman, Washington; grandchildren, Michael (Emily) of Columbia Falls, and Jessica (Kirby) Sharbono of Tacoma, Washington; two great-grandchildren, Madelyn and Ethan; brother, Don (Mary Ann) of Vancouver, Washington; and stepchildren, Jim (Nancy) Harry of Ellensburg, Washington, and Linda (Rob) VanHalder of Nampa, Idaho.

A burial ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on May 11 at Woodlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim’s name to the National Rifle Association.

Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for Jim’s family.