James Turtle, formerly of Niles

Published 9:25 am Tuesday, April 29, 2014

July 26, 1936 — April 21, 2014

James “Jim” Turtle, of Niles, died April 21, 2014.

James Turtle

Jim Turtle was born June 26, 1936, in Niles, the son of Alice (Schau) and Edward Mock Turtle. He was raised in Niles, and later moved to Tampa, Fla.

He is survived by brother, Edward, and his wife Patsy, sister, Donna Ochenryder and her husband Herb, sister JoAnn Flock and her husband Jack.

Jim graduated from Niles High School in 1954. He married Jessie (Swaim) on Dec. 21, 1957. They were married until her passing Nov. 17, 2013.

He served 26 years in the Air Force, retiring in 1980.

His military career sent him all over the world, including one year in Vietnam, South Carolina, Portugal, Delaware, Texas, New Mexico, Germany and Oklahoma.

He received the following recognition: Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, AF Commendation Medal, NCO Professional Military Education Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, AF Longevity Award, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, AF Outstanding Unit Award, Viet Nam Gallantry Cross, Viet Nam Campaign Medal, to name a few.

Jim and Jessie retired in Florida at their lakeside cottage, where Jim did community services and was the maître’ de for the local TAT civic community center. He wore a variety of festive costumes to entertain guests and members.

He is survived by his children, Jamie Turtle and his wife Jill of Niles; Tammy Tackett of Del City, Okla.; Cindy and her husband Mark, of Albuquerque; grandchildren, Christie Moore, Lenzy Gilles, Caitlin Turtle, Lauren Tackett, Thomas Sawyer and Alexandra Turtle; great-grandchildren, Isabella, Jaxson, and Emma.

Because Jim was a very patriotic American memorial donations may be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project or Project Healing Waters.