James W. Putnam

13th of November, 2016~ James W. (Jim) Putnam passed away peacefully at the age of 95. Jim was born August 17, 1921 in Spencer, SD and was educated and lived in Mitchell, SD before relocating to Montana in 1960.

Jim enlisted in the Army Air Corp serving from 1940-45 and was stationed overseas for three years during WWII. He served in the 12th Troop Carrier Squadron of the 60th Troop Carrier Group, attaining the rank of Master Sergeant and Line Chief. Jim flew more than 80 combat missions during his overseas tour.

Jim was a devoted father and family man who enjoyed hunting with his boys and camping with the family.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Kathryn also of Mitchell, SD and his eldest son Bruce of Billings. He is survived by daughter in law Marsha Putnam of Billings and sons; Tom & wife Carol of Bozeman, MT, Steve & wife Brenda of Cape Coral, FL and Andy and wife Connie of Columbia, MO as well as 8 grandchildren and 17 great grand children.

Jim’s final years were spent at Aspen Meadows Retirement Center in West Billings where he published the Meadow Minutes newsletter for five years and where he enjoyed many good friends among staff and residents. The Putnam family wishes to thank the staff of Aspen Meadows for their loving care and friendship of our father. A private graveside service will be held in Bozeman at a later date.