James Kendall Armitage, 83

James “Jim” Kendall Armitage, husband, father, papa and friend, passed away at the age of 83. Jim was born on July 7, 1936, to Maurice Armitage and Grace Armitage (Halverson) in Glenns Ferry, Idaho.

He graduated from Glenns Ferry High School in 1955 and shortly after, enlisted in the United States Army, subsequently obtaining his civil engineering degree from the University of Idaho.

Jim was proud of his 25 years of service in the United States Army and his more than 20 years at the state of Idaho Transportation Department.

He married the love of his life, Louise Armitage, on July 18, 1981. Anyone who knew them would agree that they truly shared a “once-in-a-lifetime” love.

His laugh was boisterous and heartfelt; you always knew when he entered a room. His life spanned a time of simple survival, farming and truck-driving, to intricately designed highways, bridges and right-of-ways. Above all was his belief in family, in Louise, and in the life they built together.

Jim’s “happy place” was lounging in his recliner with a book in his hands, a pipe in his mouth and his beloved puppy dogs nestled comfortably in his lap. Frequent breakfast outings with the family at the Owl Café or JB’s Restaurant provided the comfort food and conversation that he so enjoyed. Trips with the grandchildren (Brittany and Aidan) to Iowa, Hawaii, Disney World, on numerous cruises around the world and on many “dessert excursions” filled his retirement years with the adventure dreamt of in his youth. These memories will forever live on within the family’s hearts.

Jim always had a smile on his face and a joke on his lips. He was never short on anecdotes or wisdom, which made for countless lively and memorable conversations. His warm smile, cheerful laugh, loving nature and colorful wardrobe will be missed by all who loved and knew him.

Jim is survived by his children, Tammy Warren, Ken Armitage, Robert Armitage, Nickie Bell, Roger Armitage, Reece Armitage (wife Bobbi), Anthony Armitage (wife Rickie) and Julie Toole (husband Michael); grandchildren Brittany Pica-Dorscher (husband Isaac), Aidan Toole, Derrick Armitage (wife Rachel), Elizabeth McKeen, Taylor Armitage (wife Amanda), Terrence Jonquet, Charma L’Heureux and Tysha Kalani; 10 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Jim is preceded in death by his loving wife, Louise Armitage; parents Maurice and Grace Armitage; mother-in law Alice Calkins and siblings.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to the Hospice of North Idaho Schneidmiller House.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 19, 2020, at Coeur d’Alene Memorial Gardens, 7315 Government Way, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Homes. Online registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.