James Oliver Walstad

James Walstad
Tropic, Utah

James Oliver Walstad passed away January 4, 2021 in Tropic, Utah after a long illness.  Jim was born in Minot, ND on June 29, 1942 to Judith Satran and Oliver Alexander Walstad.  He was one of five children.  Jim went to high school at Wadina, MN and later joined the Navy where he was stationed in Hawaii as an air traffic controller.

Jim decided to make air traffic controlling his career where he worked many years and retired from the FAA in Cedar City, UT.  On June 29, 1999 he married Sheree Garrett.  Jim was known for his sharp wit and high IQ.  Not many people could out play Jim at any game.  He loved to play cards and darts.  Jim even rode a bull at a rodeo on a dare to celebrate his 40th birthday.

Jim had a willingness to help anyone who needed anything.  Jim was an adventurous person and loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing. Jim could write a book about the many hours he spent traveling the hills of Garfield County and knew the area as well as many of the "old timers". He was a good dad to Sheree’s boys and loved to live life to the fullest.

Jim is survived by his wife Sheree;  five boys: Chip, Tim, Shane, Shannon, and Lane Garrett; sister, Sharon McCullough;  5 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.   He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters: Lavore Freeborn, Betty Kobetsky, Candice Benton; and nephew, Kyle Benton.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, January 15, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in the Tropic Cemetery with military honors by the Bryce Valley American Legion Post #18 and the Navy Honor Guard. Live streaming of the services and online guestbook can be found at www.maglebymortuary.com under Jim’s obituary. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti.