TORRINGTON – James Wayne Horton, 90, passed away on September 3, 2023, in Torrington. He was born November 17, 1932, in Great Falls, Montana, the second child of Carl and Mabel Horton.
Jim was raised primarily in Sheridan, and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1951. Delivering newspapers at a young age sparked a lifelong journey for Jim in the world of printing. Jim served in the USMC during the Korean Conflict before marrying Betty Jean Gamble on November 26, 1955. They lived in Boulder, Colorado, while he attended CU Boulder. But the allure of the printing world eventually drew them to Charles City, Iowa, where Jim trained at the Midland Linotype School. Thus began his journey as a linotype operator at the Buffalo Bulletin, Buffalo; the Sheridan Press, Sheridan; and the Littleton Independent, Littleton, Colorado.
In 1972, Jim and Jean made their final move to Torrington, to open a photo offset job printing shop. They passionately served the Goshen County area for 46 years and Jim continued to have his hands in the printing ink until the age of 86. Jim was very active in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts for many years in both Colorado and Wyoming. He was a faith-filled member in various churches and happily served in many leadership roles with the local American Legion Post.
Jim enjoyed fishing, hunting, mowing on a riding lawn mower, helping his children with 4-H and FFA livestock projects, spending time with Jean traveling in their camper trailer, and relaxing at their Black Hills cabin with family and friends.
Jim is survived by his wife of 67 years, Betty Jean Horton; a son, John Horton (Nancy) of Easton, Kansas; two daughters, Barb Placzek of Corvallis, Montana, Pam Phipps (Jim) of Harrison, Nebraska; and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; both siblings; daughter Sue Schamel (Russ); daughter-in-law Joy Horton; son-in-law Steve Placzek; and grandson Jacob Horton.
A private family graveside service will be held at Valley View Cemetery in Torrington with Pastor Gary Flom officiating. The family suggests that memorials be made to The American Legion Post No. 5 in Torrington, to support the yearly display of the Avenue of Flags at the Valley View Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of the Colyer Funeral Home and friends may send their condolences to the family at www.colyerfuneralhome.com.
