James Neumayer, 88
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James Neumayer, a beloved husband, father, and friend, who departed this life peacefully at his home in Bonners Ferry, surrounded by his cherished family. Jim's years were filled with the warmth of family, friends, and the rugged beauty of North Idaho.
Born on November 9, 1935, at the old Neumayer home on Oak Street in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, James was the eighth of ten children. Jim purchased his first cows at 17 years old and secured the loan with a handshake from the banker, demonstrating his determination and resourceful spirit. Though he wasn't particularly fond of school, his life changed when he met a remarkable young woman named JoAnn, whose encouragement inspired him to complete his education. He graduated from Bonners Ferry High School, and a year later, on April 14, 1956, he married JoAnn, embarking on a lifelong journey of love and partnership.
Jim's dedication to his country led him to join the National Guard with his best friend John Alt in 1956, where he served with pride. He also worked alongside Charlie and Bob Pluid logging. Soon after, he embarked on a significant career in the sawmill industry at the Moyie River Lumber Company which later became Louisiana Pacific, where he worked for 28 years until a strike prompted him to pursue new endeavors.
In pursuit of his passion for providing for others and his deep sense of community, Jim established Neumayer Mills on his property along Cow Creek with his four oldest boys. For 32 years he earned a reputation as a hardworking, dedicated, and generous individual. His steadfast commitment to his craft and his community created a lasting legacy that touched the lives of everyone who knew him.
Family and Faith were the cornerstones of Jim’s life. When he wasn’t busy at work or chasing after his children, he spent countless hours managing and nurturing his beloved forest, achieving certification in the American Tree Farm System. Jim also cut firewood … lots of fire wood … as those who knew him can attest to that. Jim's dedication to the community especially showed as he played a pivotal role in establishing and donating property for the volunteer fire department at Paradise Valley. Residents living near the Neumayer Sawmill referred to them as the go-to-team whenever fires broke out. His uplifting humor, and generous nature enriched the lives of many, creating lasting memories that will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
James is survived by his loving children: Joseph (Teri), Jeffery (Jodie), Jennifer (Mike), Jerome (Kathleen), John (Jenny), Jill (David), and James (Rose), as well as his adored grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Helen Harris and Polly Parisot along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Alois (Ott) and Natalie Neumayer; brothers, Phillip (in infancy), Art, John and Gene; and sisters, Dorothy, Alice and Joann; granddaughter, Beth; and great-granddaughter, Harlynn.
Rosary will be at 10 a.m. followed by the funeral service for James on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 11 a.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church. Friends and family are invited to share their cherished memories and stories. To leave a message or memory for the family go to bonnersferryfuneralhome.com. Bonners Ferry Funeral Home is caring for the family.
James' legacy of kindness, love, and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever shine brightly in our lives.