James E. Gilmer

James “Jim” Gilmer of Arvada, Colorado died on August 10^th, 2023, after a brief illness. Jim was born on November 27^th, 1945, in Dallas, Texas to parents Emily Ann Moore and Harold Phipps “HP” Gilmer. At 9 months old, Jim and his parents moved to Peru beginning a lifetime of unique journeys and occupations. His father’s career in the Air Force led to homes in several states and eventually leading to Buenos Aires, Argentina. Jim graduated from the Lincoln American School in Buenos Aires in 1964, having made numerous life-long friends, beginning his affinity for sports, and cultivating his passion for knowledge and travel.

After high school, Jim attempted college, but eventually joined the United States Marine Corps in June 1966, serving time in Vietnam, and was honorably discharged in July 1969 with the rank of Sergeant.

Following his stint in the Marines, Jim returned to college, attending The University of Missouri, studying Nuclear Chemistry, earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. These degrees allowed Jim to work in several sectors and locations including living in Vienna, Austria, while working with the United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency, Department of Energy’s Hanford site, various consulting agencies, and Rocky Flats Plant. In October of 1987, he was awarded the Rockwell President’s Award for the development of a measurement device for Rocky Flats Plant.

It was while at Rocky Flats that Jim met and married Jody Giacomini on June 6^th, 1987. A little over a year later, they welcomed their son, Matthew Gilmer.  They eventually settled in Westminster, Colorado, where the family lived a life full of laughs, travel and countless school and competitive sporting events. 

Jim loved a tough Sunday New York Times Crossword, watching sports, traveling with Jody and friends, and most importantly, enjoying time with his granddaughter, Finley James Gilmer. A man of several nicknames, Jim was affectionately known as Rummy by his parents, Little Jimmy G amongst his schoolmates, and Grumpy by his granddaughter. This Grumpy name manifested in a wardrobe that often included a simple hat with the word “Grumpy” emblazoned across the front. 

Jim is survived by his wife, Jody, his son, Matthew and his wife, Bridgette as well as his granddaughter, Finley. He is preceded in death by his parents, Emily Ann and HP, and his brother Stuart. Services for Jim will be held at Horan & McConaty located in Arvada, Colorado at 11:00 am on August 23^rd, with a reception to follow at the same location. Private burial services will be held at a later date at Fort Logan National Cemetery. Jim and his family would like to thank the healthcare professionals at Good Samaritan Hospital and Dignity Hospice Care. In lieu of flowers, the family would request donations to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.