James Hennis

James Edward Hennis was born in 1937 in La Junta, Colorado. He was the middle child, with two sisters, Lavina (Smith) and Joann (Tracy), born to Leo and Vera Hennis. He grew up in La Junta and spent a lot of time with his grandparents when he was a child, helping his grandpa and enjoying his grandma’s cooking. He cherished those memories and talked about them often. He spent time working on the railroad with his dad, as well as other odd jobs. Jim graduated La Junta High School in 1958.
He served in the Air Force where he was a mechanic for B52 bombers. He enjoyed working on the planes but didn’t reenlist. He would have continued as a plane mechanic but didn’t want to live in Denver, as he was a small-town guy at heart.
He took a job at the Colorado State Hospital (as it was then called) and attended University of Southern Colorado where he graduated with a BA in nursing in order to become a registered nurse. He continued his work at the State Hospital until he retired at age fifty-five. He married Maxine Rose in 1963. They had two daughters, Kay and Julie.
Jim enjoyed reading, particularly Tony Hillerman novels, but also westerns, sci-fi, and war history. His musical tastes were eclectic, including Barbra Streisand, Hank Williams, Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs, The Four Seasons, and the Beegees. He liked aiming for those high notes.

Jim liked to fish, hunt, and go to yard sales with his brother-in-law and friends. He was a quiet man who enjoyed his own company but was faithful and protective of his family. He was a good example of patience, loyalty, gentleness, and a smart aleck sense of humor which brought laughter to many people.
Jim was much loved by his extended family and considered a favorite by many who knew him. He passed away in his home on November 14, 2024, attended by his daughters. He is survived by his wife, Maxine Hennis of Canon City; his daughters, Kay Day of Colorado Springs and Julie Shirley of Canon City; his sister, Joann Tracy of Pueblo West; and five grandchildren.

A viewing will be held at Holt Funeral Home in Canon City on November 22, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A graveside service will follow at 12:30 PM at Lakeside Cemetery.

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