James J. Knadle, age 82, died on Sept. 15, 2015 at a Canon City, Colorado nursing facility.  Jim’s home for many years was Westminister, Colorado, where he was employed by the U.S. Postal Service.

He was born Oct. 5, 1932, the son of James and Evelyn (Rankins) Knadle in Hillsboro.

He graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1950 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in March, 1951, serving in Japan and Korea. He was discharged in March 1955.

In 1956, as a reservist, he was recalled to active duty.  In March, 1961, Jim was chosen to be an air commando.  In February, 1963, on his second tour in Vietnam, Jim was injured on his 165th parachute jump, many behind enemy lines;  the result being an honorable discharge in December, 1963.

Jim was buried with full military honors and laid to rest in Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Co.

Survivors include his loving wife of 44 years, Maggie; son Kevin; daughters Shaun Bedker and Ruby Lamb; a sister, Doris (Richard) Sweeney of Hillsboro; two grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a son, Kurt, and his parents.

Memorial contributions mat be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 455 Sherman St. #500, Denver, CO 80203.