James Michael Boyle passed away on Monday, June 24, 2024, in Durango, Colo.
Born on April 18, 1941, in Philadelphia, Pa., to Francis X. and Helen Z. Boyle, Jim was 83 years old. He was the sixth of eight siblings (five sisters and two brothers, who have all preceded him in death). A self-described “klutz,” he had more than his fair share of stitches, broken bones and hospital visits. He often joked that he was fortunate to have sisters who were nurses to provide frequently needed medical attention.
A graduate of Cardinal Dougherty High School, Jim remained in Pennsylvania until he enlisted in the United States Army. He served in Heilbronn, Germany, for four years and had many fond memories of his time in Europe. He viewed his service to our country as one of his greatest accomplishments and would regale friends and family with stories of his Army antics, including rolling a Jeep and breaking his arm (see previous paragraph).
Jim had an infectious smile, a warm and engaging personality, a positive and generous spirit, and a zest for life that was contagious. Befitting of his personality, Jim became a gifted salesman following his service in the Army. He worked for several companies, including Mrs. Smiths, Lee Tire and Sea Land. His clients enjoyed his easygoing manner and respected him for his honesty.
He and his first wife, Pam (who preceded him in death in 1991), raised a family in Conshohocken, Pa. A man of great character, Jim ingrained the importance of strong values, hard work, and community service in his children. He tirelessly served as the coach of countless youth sports teams (even if he didn’t know the sport), as a Scoutmaster, and as a volunteer in other community organizations. Jim’s service was not restricted to formal organizations. He was quick to help neighbors, friends of his kids and anyone in need, always refusing recognition or compensation.
Jim is survived by his wife, Marion. Jim and Marion were married for 27 years in January of this year. Meeting and falling in love in Philadelphia, they answered the call of the wild. In 2000, they built a log home on 36 acres in Colorado’s high country and moved west. Their adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors took them to countless national parks, forests, and scenic areas across the West. Jim and Marion shared a passion for the beauty of the country and had recently visited Yellowstone National Park.
Jim never retired. He held jobs at the county jail, Walmart and City Market in Pagosa Springs. He always felt that he had more to contribute and enjoyed being an active community member. Work offered him the opportunity to meet people and make new friends. His pension for corny, but spotlessly clean, jokes was well-known. He mastered “dad jokes” before they were a thing and never knew a joke bad enough to tell only once.
Jim is survived by his children: Chris (Sue) Boyle, Amy (Mark) Kieft and Megan Boyle, and his stepsons, Charles Fogarty and Tim Fogarty. His grandchildren also survive him, Dana Kieft, Jack Boyle, Molly Kieft, Ally Boyle, Kelly Boyle and Paige Kieft, as well as 28 nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jim’s memory to the American Heart Association or the Wounded Warrior Project. Details for a memorial will be announced soon.
