James Griffith

James Alan Griffith, 61, of Colorado Springs, Colorado passed away Nov. 24, 2012.Jim was born May 4, 1951, the 3rd son of James William and Mary Ruth in Osceola, MO. Jim spent most of his early years on his grandparents farm in Vista, MO. His years there were full of love and great memories. In his teen years he lived in KCMO and Bloomington, IN where his reputation as a prankster preceded him. His name was well known even 20 years later.Jim married his high school sweetheart Gina Lee Koontz whom he had known since the age of 14 on Nov 22 1969. Jim and Gina had a long and happy marriage that produced 4 children Jamie (Bil) Kane, Joseph (DEAna) Griffith, Kimberly (Joshua) Pierce, and Travis (Amber) Griffith. They also opened their home and "adopted" Tessa Dimatulac, Deena Faler, their childrens friends and dads soldiers.Jim was blessed with 29 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and 2 more on the way.Preceding him in death were his loving grandparents Dad and Mom Kelley, his father James William, mother Mary Ruth Chandler, a brother Zane Griffith, and grandson Stetson James, and a great grandson Breydon Hinkle.Jim was a much loved man, a highly decorated soldier who fought in Desert Storm, worked for Colorado Deptartment of Corrections, and lastly Ingersoll Rand. He was fluent in several languages including American sign language as his oldest brother was deaf. He was a very, very intelligent man. His wife and family always knew they were loved and taken care of.We will miss our fathers sense of humor, his wacky nicknames, silly songs, and his "favorite" kid game.He was a very humble man and well respected by all. He will be greatly missed by all. He served proudly and retired after 20 years in the U.S Army achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. This was one of his crowning achievements. He was a very proud of his service, his family, and his patriotism. No man could be as loved by his family and he loves us equally in return. Funeral Home:The Springs Funeral Services3115 East Platte AvenueColorado Springs, , COUS 80909 Events Service Saturday, December 1, 2012 11:00AM The Springs Funeral Services 3115 East Platte Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80909 Phone: 719-207-8855