Obituary - James E. Hall

James Emory Hall, 86, passed away at Hospice House, March 2, 2012, surrounded by his family. Emory was born Aug. 16, 1925, in Bovill. He was preceded in death by his father, Edd Hall; his mother, Mamie (Tucker) Hall; and his sister, Wanda.

He was a dynamic, opinionated man, cut from a rare mold from the greatest generation. Emory was often opposing, but his passion lifted everyone else around him. Emory graduated from Bovill High School and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in June of 1943 at the age of 16, where he studied engineering at Purdue University. Emory flew patrol aircraft in the Texas and Florida Gulf coast until the war ended. He formed J. E. Hall Logging Contractors and became one of the largest private contract loggers in the nation.

Emory married the love of his life; they were married for 61 years. Emory was also a Caterpillar equipment dealer, banker and marina operator. Emory's passion was flying. He owned single-engine and twin-engine aircraft as well as Bell helicopters. He often participated in aerial search and rescue. A special award was given to Emory by The Inland Empire Big Game Council, awarded in appreciation for the rescue of a member. He received an award from the VFW for performing an outstanding act of citizenship. In retirement, Emory and his wife enjoyed boating in Alaska and RV'ing about the country.

Emory is survived by his wife; three children; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank Life Care of Hayden, Idaho, and Hospice House in Hayden for outstanding care in his last days of life.

There will be a celebration of Emory's life at 1 p.m. April 7 at Blackwell Island RV Resort, 800 S. Marina Drive, Coeur d'Alene. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Hospice House, 2290 W. Prairie Ave., Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815. Please visit Emory's memorial and sign his online guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.

Lewiston Tribune, March 11, 2012, p. 7C
Transcribed by Jill Leonard Nock

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