James was born October 25, 1925 in Denver, Colorado and raised in Rawlins, Wyoming. At the age of 18, James joined the US Navy where he served as a pilot. He rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander and served during World War II and the Korean War. After his Naval service he was employed by the Federal Aviation Administration where he stayed until his retirement. James is survived by his loving wife, Margaret L. Contos; sons, John C. Contos, Mike A. (Karen) Contos, Steve J. (Kara) Contos; grandchildren, Kristen, Jeff, Matt, James, Christian, Samantha, Rosella, Aly and Sydney; sister, Van Mack; brother, Spiro Contos. James was one helluva father, hunter, and fisherman.