James Alden Rumer

James Rumer 1945 - 2023

    James “Jim” Rumer of San Marcos, CA for 7 years, passed away peacefully early Saturday morning, March 4, 2023. He was surrounded by the love that he gave to this world in the form of his wife and children. Jim was born to the late Alden Rumer and Esther Rumer-Chrans (Kozak) on September 13, 1945, in Oshkosh, NE. He grew up and worked on the family farm in Lisco, NE, where he, his three brothers, and his best friend Lenny Parachini would skillfully hunt animals, some feathered, some furry. He enjoyed playing baseball, basketball, and running track at Garden County High School in Oshkosh where he received a National Honor Society athletics award. He carried his love of sports with him throughout his life and passed it on to his children. He attended Regis University in Denver for one year to study theology so that he could enter the priesthood. He loved the Denver area, but soon decided that becoming a priest wasn’t for him, so he transferred to the University of Nebraska, Lincoln where he graduated with a degree in math. During the summers between semesters Jim signed up for a hay crew and caught the eye of the cook’s daughter, Mary Anne Spoeneman. When Jim and Mary happened to recognize each other walking across campus one day, they stopped for a Coke at the student union, and a love story blossomed.

    When Jim was drafted into the U.S. Army, he was told he would be sent to Germany to serve. Jim asked Mary to marry him and join him on that adventure. Mary quickly agreed. Unfortunately, the Army broke its promise, and he was sent to Vietnam instead. He served his country well, and earned a Bronze Star Medal. After finishing his tour in Vietnam, he and Mary were stationed at Ft. Bliss in El Paso, TX for a year where Jim convinced Mary to move to Denver. They lived there for over 40 years. Jim worked at a financial bank for a short while, but then got a job with Katzson Brothers as a salesman. He was generous and encouraging, albeit in a quiet way, much like his father. His wit was quick and subtle; his anger slow and restrained. He had the patience of a Husker fan which he demonstrated by raising five ornery children who put him through every test imaginable. He coached their baseball, softball, and soccer teams, attended music performances, and took them to church every Sunday. He was a dedicated dad who always showed up for his family. He loved to play bridge and poker with the Holly Hills neighbors. He was known for his quirky duck collection which earned him the nickname Grandpa Duck. Jim and Mary retired to San Marcos, CA to enjoy the extended gardening season and extra oxygen. They celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary on February 17th, 2023.

    Jim is survived by his wife, Mary (Spoeneman), five children, Stacia, Andrew (Susan Gloor), Eric, Kenneth (Amber), and Kerry (Peter Havens), nine grandchildren, Julianne, Care, Dana, Lilian, Clayton, Joey, Parker, Jadyn, and Casey, and two brothers, Anthony and Ronald.  

   A celebration of life will be held at Abiding Hope Church in Littleton, CO on Friday, June 9th at 11am. Attendees are encouraged to wear Broncos/Rockies/Cornhusker/duck/hunting attire in honor of Jim. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to Judi's House (judishouse.org). 

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