Jim joined our Lord in his sleep at home on Nov.6, 2018 after a ten year struggle with Alzheimer’s.
Jim was born in Wilmington, Delaware to James and Emily McClelland, growing up in a loving family with three sisters he adored. Barely turning 18 he joined the Marines and served in WWII-remaining a Marine in his heart the rest of his life. After returning home from the war he heard the call… Go west young man…landing in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Graduating with a degree in Animal Husbandry from New Mexico A.&.M. (now New Mexico State University). While there with the nickname Yank he became class president and most importantly meeting the president of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority Joan S. Jobe, the love of his life. Jim and Joan (Jobie) were married Aug 20, 1954. After graduation they both became teachers moving to Oregon (as Dad said to discover new country and camping spots!). While there Jim discovered his true calling in helping kids, earning his masters in Counseling from Oregon College of Education. Going on to have a 30 plus year career as a school counselor in Oregon, Arizona and Colorado. During this time moving his family to Cortez, Colorado. ( Dad saying Colorado has the best camping!). In retirement Jim and Jobie spent years traveling –always finding the best camping spots! Yet his love of counseling, the outdoors, and animals was nothing compared to the love for his family. His family will forever be thankful for the “life” in our lives he gave us and taught us to have. Thank you Dad 1.4.3! Jim will be greatly missed by his beloved sisters –Jane Cantara, Alice Bucanan, and Eileen Harvey. His devoted wife of 64 years Jobie McClelland. His children Jim, Jed and Jackie. Grandchildren: Ashley, Michael, and Jimmy. Great grandchildren: Amaya, Cora, and Everett.
At this time we would like to give our sincere thanks to Nancy Parks, Jenell with the VA clinic Glenwood Springs, Colo. And Dr. Harder and his wonderful staff at the Retina Center, Grand Junction, Colo. For the love and kindness shown over the years not only for Jim but also for his wife and daughter.