James Bruce Lehr

James Bruce Lehr passed away peacefully July 22, 2012 at his home surrounded by his loving family, after a long valiant struggle with Degenerative Ataxia. James was born December 18, 1936 in Fredonia, North Dakota, to Rueben and Ida Hoff Lehr. James spent his childhood in Grand Forks, North Dakota, graduating from Central High School in 1954. He continued his studies at the University of North Dakota earning both his Bachelor of Science and Masters Degree in Chemistry and Physics, specializing in education. He was later inducted into the educational honor society PHI DELTA KAPPA. James married Barbara Johnson of Fosston, Minnesota in 1957. In 1960, they moved to Moorpark, California and began his career teaching Chemistry and Physics at Moorpark High School and Oxnard High School. He then became head of the Physical Science Department at Moorpark College. James had interest in environmental work, and in 1969, he was appointed the Director of Environmental Services for Ventura County, CA. In 1973, James accepted a position with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 8, as Director of Air Pollution Control in Denver, Colorado. He then became the Director of Environmental Service Division and regional liaison to the Western Governors, where he worked on behalf of the Lakota Indians to reclaim reservation land. He also worked as part of the clean up project at Rocky Flats. James loved his career and his work with the EPA. James is survived by his wife Barbara, his three children Cheryl, Mark, and Kathryn. He also is survived by his six grandchildren and one great grandchild. He loved spending time with his family. He was an avid tennis player, enjoyed softball, cycling, running, and the many activities in the Colorado Mountains. Services and Internment will be at Hope United Methodist Church Friday, July 27, 2012, 5101 South Dayton Street Greenwood Village, Colorado 80111. Memorials may be made in Jim's name to Hospice of St. John, 1320 Everett Court, Lakewood, Colorado 80215; National Ataxia Foundation, c/o Jim Lehr Memorial Fund, 2600 Fernbrook Lane, Suite 119, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55447; or to Hope United Methodist Church, 5101 South Dayton Street, Greenwood Village, Colorado 80111. Please share your memories of Jim and condolences with his family by signing the guestbook. Blessed be his memory…