James Thomas Sample passed from this world on January 8, 2023 at age 82. In the short course of a year two types of cancer brought down this 6'4" man of courage and good works.
Jim was a graduate of Denver's South High School, where he was a photographer for the newspaper and recorded many school functions. He moved easily from the basketball court to theatrical productions to piano recitals.
Jim was proud to have biked over to East High School to witness Judy Collins play classical piano, or sing folks songs, as she began her long career. Jim never missed a chance to connect with and see 'Judy Blue Eyes' when she returned to Denver to perform.
Jim worked over 40 years in the grocery business. He started out as a youth at his Uncle's grocery and gas station at Santa Fe and Evans. He then spent many years with King Soopers and Cub Foods.
At Kings he volunteered for the company's committee to direct financial aid to local non-profits. He was especially active during the onset of AIDS in the community, when he lost many co-workers and friends.
Along with his life's partner Ray Ehrenstein, he became active in his Registered Neighborhood Organization, Overland Park. Here Jim also became a Delegate to Denver's Inter-Neighborhood Cooperation, where his photograhic skills were evident and his voice and culinary efforts were welcomed.
Jim is survived by his brother Dean Sample, Dean's wife Sandy, both of Mesa, Arizona and sister Sue Ann Sample of Denver. Jim was proceeded into the great hereafter by sister Nanette Sample O'Brien, whose family and adult children, Patrick and Colleen honor his memory still. As does his partner of fifty years, Ray Ehrenstein.
A Celebration of Jim Sample's Life will be held at a later date to be announced. A beautiful urn has been selected from Newcomer Mortuary and a placement will be determined by family.
Please consider honoring Jim's memory with a contribution to the non-profit of your choosing. Also, Jim was a long time supporter of the SouthWest Improvement Council, if you would care to support this non-profit's neighborhood efforts.