Lange, James A.

James A. Lange

July 3, 1948 – November 28, 2016

James Lange, AKA Jimmy and Cool Hand Luke, age 68 of Houston passed after a long battle with dementia. Jim was born July 3, 1948, to his parents, Bernice (Bauer) and Les Lange. After graduation from La Crescent High School, Jim enlisted in the US Navy and served with the US Navy “Seabees”. He was assigned to CBMU 301 Det Bravo at the Marine Combat Base Khe Sanh, RVN. Jim was well liked and a quiet young man who served with courage during the now famous siege in 1968. Jim was at Khe Sanh during the entire siege.

He married Bonnie Kappauf in 1968 and divorced in 1988. Together they had Two (2) children, Troy and Tammy.

In 1990, Jim married Lois Jones of Wilmot, SD. The Two shared many years together on their Mound Prairie farm. Many memories were made to enjoy time with children and grandchildren. In 2012, Jim was diagnosed with dementia. His wife Lois’s resolve and determination made it possible for him to remain in the home they shared and loved until his passing.

During his lifetime, Jim enjoyed playing softball, hunting, fishing, golf, playing cards, and spending time with family and friends. He had an uncanny ability to instigate mischief among the children. In his later years, as dementia took over, all he could was listen. He enjoyed the priceless moments around a campfire with his dear friends. He found comfort looking at family pictures and listening to country music.

Jim is survived by his wife Lois, son Troy (Shannon) and their son Reece, daughter Tammy (Dusty) Twite, and their children Seth, Cayley, and Luke. He is also survived by his mother Bernice, siblings Rose, (Ron) Wall, Ray (Catherine) , Judy, (Fred) Mueller, Donna (Stan) Johnson, Joan (Keith) Kor, Kathy Lange, Dan (Michelle), Deb (Shane) Trynowski, Mike (Patty) sister-in-law, Linda Lange as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Les, siblings Rick and Sharon (Bruce) Feran, and nephew Ronnie.