James (Jim) Stappler

Jim started his life long love of hunting and fishing in this world at International Falls, Minnesota. He was the youngest of 6 children. His father, Tony, was in Border Patrol and they moved frequently as needed for the job, finally settling in Boise. Jim always said he had the best childhood and parents.

Jim was a natural athlete at anything he tried and he had many successes at a high level of play but you would never hear it from him.

After graduating from Borah High School and then college, with the help of Walt DeBlieck, Jim was hired onto the Boise Fire Department as a Fireman/EMT. Jim loved his job and many of the men that influenced his life. As a Captain Jim was always concerned about the safety of his crew and never missed a chance to brag about them to me and I believe he influenced them on and off the job.

Jim married Betty in 1989 and he was proud of his 35 years of marriage. If asked how long he had been married his response with a laugh was always “since dirt”. Jim and Betty spent years horseback riding in the back country and dragging the kids along, hunting and fishing. So many adventures and stories to share from Jarbidge, NV to Montana. He influenced many kids over the years also, as he helped Betty raise her boys, nieces, nephews and grandkids. Just a natural authority figure who was strong, quiet, loving and disciplined. When Jim retired he jumped right into building our dream house on 10 acres in Council. He knew every inch of the house and really loved the building process. Jim truly loved the Council area and the people whom he met and laughed with. Jim passed away at his much loved home in Council on November 14th at the age of 60. He fought hard the last 2 years of illness and his wicked sense of humor never faded. Jim was a rare simple man. You could take his word to the bank, he believed in commitment, and he had such a self confidence that just made you feel safe. Always the voice of reason with his calm manner in any situation. When asked several weeks before his death if he would change anything about his life? Jim said “I have no regrets and I would do it all over again”. Betty and the family want to say a special thank you to all of the caring medical professionals, the many wonderful friends in Council and his brothers on the Fire Department who supported us through this difficult time. In The Lord’s time, By the Lords Will. “I will see you on the other side Stop!”

Per Jim’s request there will be a BBQ and get together at his home at a later date. Services will be conducted Thursday, December 5, at 10:00, Deer flat Church, 17703 Beet Rd. in Caldwell, ID.

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