James Dalrymple

Madison–Jim, the oldest child of Elmer (Dal) and Margaret (Peg) Dalrymple, passed from this world on November 28, 2011, surrounded by those he loved and who loved him. Jim was born on March 4, 1947 In Des Moines, Iowa, and moved to Madison with his family as a young child; he continued to live in the area his entire life. He graduated from Madison West High School and after graduation enlisted and served in the United States Air Force stationed in the Philippines and Greenland among other locations, working as a flight navigator. After discharge from the military he was hired at Placon Corporation where he worked from Placon’s inception through almost 40 years of growth. Jim spoke often of his work with pride and said he learned the most when he listened to his staff. Jim was also married for 20 years and carried positive memories throughout his life. Sixteen months ago Jim was diagnosed with head, neck, lung and esophageal cancer. Against great odds Jim fought his battle with courage and determination; if ever you asked him how he was doing his only answer was “getting better”. There is so much to say and so little to ease our grief but Jim would have said “life’s journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body, but to slide in sideways, totally worn out shouting WHOA what a ride!” Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Peg; his brother Steven Dalrymple; and his foster brother Greg Bailey. He is survived by his father, Dal; his brother Eric (Lori) Dalrymple; sister Karen (Charles) Larson, and his nieces and nephews, Jordan and Tucker Dalrymple; Michael (Angie) Larson, their children Eden and Chloe; Randy (Shannon Redden) Larson; Pamela (Andy) Vanko and Kristopher Larson. Gratitude beyond any possible measure is extended to his nieces and nephews who worked diligently and cared tenderly for Jim during his time of exceptional need. Friends and family are welcome on Saturday, December 10, 2011, when Jim will be honored with a military burial at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison. A celebration of his life will follow from 12:30 until 2:30 p.m. at Monkey Shines in Fitchburg where his extended family loved and cared for him as if he were their own. Safe journey Jim, we love and will miss you. Cemetery: Friends and family are welcome on Saturday, December 10, 2011, when Jim will be honored with a military burial at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison. A celebration of his life will follow from 12:30 until 2:30 p.m. at Monkey Shines in Fitchburg where his extended family loved and cared for him as if he were their own.