James Hurt Mundy IV, 80

James Hurt Mundy IV passed away peacefully with his wife by his side Oct. 5, 2024, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. He was born Aug. 16, 1944, to Minnie Lura (Roberts) and James H. Mundy III in Ellensburg, Wash.

He attended grades K through 12, graduating from Ellensburg High School in 1962. He earned a bachelor's from Central Washington University and joined the U.S.A.F., where he served three tours in Vietnam as a fighter pilot. He flew the F-102 Supersonic Fight-Interceptor, the O-2A as a forward air controller and the B-52 earning the Distinguished Flying Cross and several Air Medals.

After the service, he returned to CWU, then taught at Thorpe H.S. one year before accepting a position flying for Cascade Airways in Walla Walla where he also served as chief pilot. When Cascade Airways folded, he was hired by the Federal Aviation Authority as an aviation safety inspector for the B-727.

He loved the man and machine connection, so also earned a commercial driver's license, a ship captain's and a merchant marine officer's U.S.C.G. license.

Jim loved building custom Harley motorcycles, racing sailboats on both the east and west coasts, bicycling, hanging out at local coffee shops and restaurants visiting with baristas, wait staff and just about anyone who was up for a chat. He was always available for a great conversation. He extensively studied domestic and wild cats. He never met a cat that he wouldn't try to save. Therefore, he loved and cared for many.

Jim is survived by his wife, Merrilee (Marsh); his son, James H. Mundy V, of Spokane Valley; brother-in-law Gary Marsh (Brenda) of Coeur d'Alene; stepbrother Jim Wilson (Pat) of Seattle; stepsister Linda Hirsch of Rancho Mirage, Calif.; cousins John Mundy (Rose) of Seattle, and Melinda Mundy Weimer (Otto) of Tacoma. He remained close to many cousins and their spouses through the years, along with his lifetime friends, Maury Worgum of Lacey, Wash., and Mac and Barbara Bledsoe of Walla Walla, Wash.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Second Chance Pet Rescue would be greatly appreciated (SCRP, P.O. Box 687, Hayden, ID 83835).

Jim was known for his beautiful smile, was well-loved and will be missed by all.

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. The online registry and condolences can be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.