James Manolakis

James “Jim” Carroll Manolakis (81 years) passed away peacefully in Littleton, Colorado on December 3, 2021. How does one summarize the history of a man that has lived a very full life in just a few paragraphs?

Jim was born December 23, 1939 to proud parents Rachel W. and John G. Manolakis. Jim was their feisty, very curious third son that had a dream of being a fighter pilot. As a young boy, he worked hard to further that dream by doing odd jobs and saving his money so he could attend college. Jim graduated from Central High School in 1958 and attended Tulsa University (TU) where he became a member of the Air Force ROTC. While attending TU, Jim met the love of his life, Elizabeth Fuller and they were married for 53 years. After graduating from TU in 1962, Jim attended flight school at Vance Air Force Base in Enid Oklahoma and graduated with honors on September 11, 1963.

Jim’s life eventually lead him and his wife to Alaska where he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force, flying F-102’s while stationed at the Elmendorf Air Force Base. Jim’s Air Force years provided the setting for many of his stores and amazing accounts of his life’s experience. If you knew Jim, you would know what a deep respect he had for the military and all those who served. He was a true patriot and proud of it.

Jim eventually left the service with the rank of Captain and planted his roots in Littleton, Colorado to fly commercially for Continental Airlines. If flying wasn’t enough, Jim had several successful businesses on the side, including Citation Homes and First General Services. Jim eventually left the airline industry to focus on his companies full time, and designed/constructed housing subdivisions, office buildings, and apartment/town home complexes.

Jim’s hard work and success lead to an early retirement filled with hobbies, spending time with his daughters, and laughing with friends. Jim was especially passionate about fishing, tying flies, visiting Alaska, hunting turkeys and pheasants, target shooting, crossword puzzles, politics, history and reading. Jim had a lot of life’s experience, and his daughters would joke “don’t ask google…just ask dad”.

Jim is preceded in death by his three brothers, Chris, George, and Pete; his mother and father, Rachel, and John; and his wife, Betty. Jim is survived by his loving daughters, Rebecca, and Tracy Manolakis; two unruly Springer Spaniels, Rosie and Millie; and many good friends.

In keeping with Jim’s wishes, Horan & McConaty Funeral Home has been entrusted with providing Cremation Services. A Committal Service with Military Funeral Honors will take place on December 20, 2021 at 2:00pm at Fort Logan National Cemetery, staging area “C”, located off Sheridan Avenue. In addition, a Celebration of Life will take place after the New Year. We welcome all friends and family to attend.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Jim’s favorite charities, Wounded Warrior Project, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, and/or the NRA.

Please leave memories and condolences for Jim by signing the tribute wall.