Book of Memories for James Earl Boatwright

Condolence From Ross Parsons

Tue, 04 Feb 2014 13:43:33 EST

Jim was a great coach, teacher, and friend. Much of why I want to be an educator is because of Jim.

Condolence From Ariel Faigon

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 12:32:33 EDT

James, who we used to call Jimbo, was a hero and a role model to me and many other kids like me during the 70's and 80's when Maccabi Tel Aviv went on to win the European cup for the 1st time. I'm deeply saddened to hear about his passing. His sportsmansship, good nature and extreme modesty stood in sharp contrast to his great achievements. We love you Jimbo. May you rest in peace.

Condolence From Robert Arnold

Sat, 02 Mar 2013 13:01:47 EST

Sorry to the living family of Jim (Uncle), wish to have shared your grief. I do wish the best and will always cherish the wonderful memories. With great love I send condolences, May he be released to life everlasting Where the Great God judges the hearts of men, and grants eternal life.. I pray my family all comes together on that day.. Love always Robb

Story shared: My HERO

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 17:11:55 EST

*Hey Coach* Words cannot even begin to explain the impact you had on my life. When I first met you I was just a student who loved history. Our bond was instant and I have cherished it since the very start. You taught me to have confidence in myself, that dreams could become reality, and that hard work and compassion could get you to where you want to end up in life. I looked to you for guidance and support through my personal life and schooling and you were always there for me with a smile and a warm hug.I am so proud to say I was a student of yours as well as a friend. Just like I told you the last time I saw you....... you have been and always will be the biggest inspiration in my life. I miss you terribly but will not say goodbye, just take care until I see you again. My love and respect for you is unmeasurable. Love always, Amanda C. Karst

Condolence From Maritt Wolfrom

Sat, 23 Feb 2013 15:45:32 EST

Such a lovely service today! Thank you for sharing so many great memories of Jim. I particularly loved seeing the video of him in the hall at school (in his trademark shorts) greeting kids. This is the Jim I knew as his colleague. Jim shared my love of teaching and history and I will be forever grateful for his presence at the high school. I really miss seeing him at his door and hearing his booming voice greeting students. There is definitely a hole in our department that won't easily be filled. Love to you all!

Story shared: Boat was a great teacher, friend, and coach

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 16:30:59 EST

Boat influenced me in a great number of ways. He was a coach, history teacher, and mentor. As a teacher, Jim lectured like he was a college professor. His class was always entertaining, interesting, and fun. I am on the path of becoming an educator--and I owe much of that to Boat. Along with a few other teachers at Wood River, Boat showed me how rewarding the profession of teaching could be. -Ross

Story shared: Knee Length Jacket

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 03:35:47 EST

My first memory of Jim is traveling with him and his children to Yellowstone, we loaded up in his big Suburban and off we went - with seven kids in tow. Jim met my parents in college and the rest is history. My sisters and I have been friends with his children for as long as we can remember. I remember his big smile and his wonderful laugh. He was always thoughtful and kind. When I was in the eighth grade I did a presentation on sports, Jim let me wear his USU Letterman's Jacket to school that day as part of my presentation, I felt like the coolest kid in the world. I wasn't even worried that the jacket came down to my knees, I've never forgotten that act of kindness.

Condolence From David and Pat Schiewe

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 20:36:00 EST

We were saddened to hear of Jim's passing. He was a good and fun friend. He made it possible for our son to have knee surgery by the team doctor from Utah State. His family hosted our son and me during the surgery. He and the basketball team from Utah State shared a win at Santa Anita with one of my husband's racehorses. That was a very exciting day for him and his team. We lost track of him and tried to find him over the years, but never knew where he landed. Our hearts go out to his children, wife and family.

Condolence From Frank & Connie Uriguen

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 15:29:18 EST

Jennifer and Family: Our hearts reach out to you at this very difficult time--may thoughts and prayers help to ease your pain. Please know that your loss and suffering is felt by a huge amount of people! Knew Jim for 45 years; always said that although he was a great basketball player--he was an even better person!! Peace be with you!

Condolence From Randy Jensen

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 11:12:12 EST

A friend of mine had a softball team for Logan Paint Center in Logan in the 70's where he recruited several of the Aggie football team. We had a great outfield but lacked a great first baseman so we recruited Jim. He was the best there was. He was as good on the ball diamond as he was on the court. Such a natural gifted athlete. And one of the most liked guys on campus. Such a great guy. Always had a smile and friendly greeting for anyone that met him. Thanks for the memories Jim.

Story shared: Encouragement and advice

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 02:54:19 EST

I met Jim by chance a few years ago, and grew to admire and respect him. When he discovered I coached high school basketball, he always had great encouragement and advice, which I found invaluable. I never knew the Jim Boatwright who was a basketball star. I didn't realize how great he was as a player, the amount of amazing achievements he had accomplished throughout his life, and the amount of fame he had enjoyed. That shows what kind of man he was. He was just my "big basketball buddy". I am so very thankful that I was able to know Jim, even if for a short time. I will remember you, my friend, for our basketball talks, and for your wisdom in life. Thank you, Jim.

Condolence From Eran Segev

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 08:35:30 EST

Jim was a very special man, who has touched many lives. I and the rest of the Segev family were fortunate to be amongst those who have known and loved Jim. Despite the distance and the infrequent contact over recent years, he was never far from our minds. To Jen, Chris, Kate, Sarah and Becky: we offer you our deepest condolences. We share your sadness and sense of loss. Tsvika, Noga, Efrat, Anat and Eran Segev

Story shared: I coached basketball with Jim in Star Valley, Wyoming

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 20:44:12 EST

My condolences to the family. I just heard today of Jim's passing. We traveled a lot of miles together and he shared a lot of experiences from USU, Israel, Europe and so forth with me.

Condolence From Laarry & Cathy Schiers

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 12:00:38 EST

I came to know Jim through you Jennifer....what a caring, giving man he was. Larry remembers him as this really tall skinny basketball player, so he didn't recognize Jim when they reconnected here in the valley. Treasure all those wonderful memories you have with one another....share them often. We are so very sorry, please know that you and your families are in our prayers. We love you!

Story shared: Play Hard or Don't Play at All

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 10:19:17 EST

For you Jimbo! Dear Boat, The moment we met is so vivid in my mind. I was just a little youngster shootin' hoops in my driveway when my dad announced that his special friend was coming to the valley. He said that you were an All-American and played professional basketball in Israel-- in fact, he even made a very memorable analogy... Michael Jordan is to Americans as Jim Boatwright is to the people of Israel. You're a true basketball legend! Needless to say, I was delighted when you stepped out of the car that first moment we met. Your height was like nothing I had ever seen before, and I was determined to play you in a game of one-on-one. And so our game began.... my little 8 year old self taking on the legendary Mr. Boat. You let me score a few times. I got angry and declared, "If you're going to play basketball, play hard or don't play at all." So you played a bit harder and denied every shot I took, of course in a playful way. :) As our relationship continued to build through the years, you never let me forget that crucial part of the game... "Play hard or don't play at all." Your playful spirit was contagious...a true blessing that I carry it with me today. Snowline Camps were the best summer activity, and you always knew how to make it an enjoyable experience. Not only were you an amazing coach, but you were such a role model and genuine man. Your heart was kind, your words were sincere, and your joy was so wonderful! You inspired and supported me in all my endeavors. You always brought a smile to my face, especially when you called me by your favorite nickname for me, K-Bug! Your laugh lives on. Your impact will remain. And the amazing memories will be for eternity. Thank you for everything, Boat! I am so grateful that you were my teacher, coach, and GREAT friend! You will be missed. Please know the positive impact you had on me, my family, the students of Wood River High School, and the Wood River community! We love you dearly! Soar with the angels and rest easy, Jimbo! Much LOVE and APPRECIATION Always, K-Bug :) P.S. I'll be waiting for a basketball rematch one day when we meet again ;) KLOVEYOUMOREBYYYEEE

Condolence From Juan

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 10:00:58 EST

"If you walk this life with just one person to call your friend, you have it made." Coach Boat, you were that person to so many. Rest easy big guy, we will see you in paradise!

Story shared: Jim Boatwright

Sat, 16 Feb 2013 17:40:27 EST

Jim was the first professional player I ever met it was always the high light of my summer to go to one of Jims basketball camps in Rupert he had an amazing talent that he was willing to share with many many people he taought the game of life as well as basketball. When my son was old enough to go to basketball camp I sent him to one of Jims snow line camps in Challis to be taught the game by the best he went on to be a state champ as well. You will always be one of my heros. Thanks I will miss you Jim

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Fri, 15 Feb 2013 23:53:15 EST

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Fri, 15 Feb 2013 18:55:09 EST

Condolence From Ray & Marisa White

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 16:16:32 EST

Jennifer and Family: Marisa and I express our heartfelt sorrow in the passing of your husband. May your family find much comfort, strength, and gentle reassurance within our Lord during this difficult time. Your family remains in our thoughts and our prayers.

Condolence From Clyde Gephart

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 10:34:15 EST

Jim was a good man, a caring father and an exceptional teacher. He was a good friend. Jim played on my local basketball team. We were 15-0 with the "Big Guy" in the lineup. We won 3 Championships in WY & 2 in ID, against some good teams. Jim was the "X" factor. May you gain comfort in knowing that your loss in shared by many.Best wishes to his wife & family.

Story shared: Big Jim

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 21:15:58 EST

As children my sister, brothers and I spent a lot of time with our Aunts and Uncles. We loved spending time with Aunt Joyce and Uncle Bill, but I especially liked it when Jim was home. He was a giant to a little girl of my size. He always took time to have a little fun with us when we were around. I do remember one time when he took us tubing down the canal. I'm not sure, but I do believe that we weren't supposed to be doing that. Jim always knew how to have a good time and how to smooth things over with Aunt Joyce. As we grew up and watched Jim's career we were so very proud of him. But even with all of his success Jim was always Jim. He was never too proud to spend time with friends and family. I will always foundly remember Jim as he would tweak my nose and call me Lauralie, his genuine smile and love of life.

Condolence From Jan Hove

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 21:01:36 EST

I am so sorry for the death of Jim. Known him since 7th grade and will miss him forever. So sad for his family and for the loss of him. Please know you are in my prayers. JanHarman Hove

Condolence From Keith Jacobson

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 17:42:16 EST

Jim Boatwright was a good man who trully cared about people. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. My sincere condolences to Jennifer and all of Jim's family.

Story shared: Meeting Jim Boatwright

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 15:28:57 EST

Jim and I met in Israel in 1974, my first year playing for a rival team, Hapoel Ramat-Gan. We were introduced by Steve Kaplan a star for many years in Israel. I even attended Jim's wedding in Boise in 1975 and was a member of the wedding party. My friend John Sparks, also from New Jersey, also joined me at Jim's wedding. We had a wonderful time in Rupert with Jim and his family before driving to Boise. Jim was a wonderfully warm person and always made people around him feel good. His accomplishments on the court were also amazing. He helped put Israel "On the Map" with his stellar play in the Euroleague Championship in 1977. "Jimbo" will be fondly remembered by all who knew him and sorely missed. RIP my old friend. Larry Gottlieb Newton, MA

Condolence From Laura Martin Chase

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 13:32:13 EST

I went to High School with Jim, and tho I didn't really know him, he was an outstanding athlete and was admired by all!! I am so sorry for your loss....May you rest in peace Jim!!

Condolence From Janet Wolfley

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 10:27:29 EST

Jennifer, my hearfelt condolences to you and your family. Coach Boatwright was an incredible man who touched the lives of so many young people and their parents. He believed in each student and athlete and encouraged them in a very special way. He was a beautiful example of a human being, that we all should strive to mirror. RIP Coach Boat!!

Condolence From McKay Erickson

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 14:54:55 EST

Coach Boatwright did make a great impact on us as his players and in his classroom. He deeply cared about us and taught us great life lessons that we will pass on.

Condolence From Lisa Williamson Gibbs

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 14:25:08 EST

May peace and comfort be upon you and your family.

Condolence From Vance Schwab

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 14:01:14 EST

My condolences to the family. I have many fond memories of Coach Boatwright in Star Valley. My fellow teammates and I still reminisce of the good times with Coach Boat.

Condolence From Pete Kramer

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:33:33 EST

Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Jennifer, along witht he rest of Jim's family. He was a great man and judging by the comments I've seen so far from his former students and players, he was a powerful influence on alot of young people. What a tribute.