James "Jim" A. Bourret

James "Jim" A. Bourret passed away peacefully on November 1, 2024, holding the hand of Linda, the wife he adored for 64 years. He was born at historic Fort Robinson, Nebraska, to Francis J. "Bud" and Fern (Eberspecher) Bourret, the fourth of five siblings in a very close-knit family. They moved back to Harrison, Nebraska when Jim was 12 where Jim and his siblings enjoyed the camaraderie of 50 first cousins. He started his career in agriculture early by hiring out as a ranch hand at age 13.

Jim graduated from Sioux County High School in Harrison, Nebraska, in 1953. He spent one year at Chadron State Teachers College before earning a master’s degree in plant pathology from the University of Wyoming. Jim was drafted in 1960. The Army recognized his intelligence and expertise and stationed him at Sandia Base as a Biological Sciences Assistant. There, he worked for medical doctors involved with research regarding atomic testing. It was interesting work to be doing during the Cold War. After completing his two-year stint in the Army, Jim obtained his PhD in mycology from the University of California, Berkeley. 

On July 31, 1960, Jim married the love of his life, Linda Ballard. Together, they traveled widely, creating cherished memories and lifelong friendships. Jim and Linda built, log by log, a beautiful two-story home in Moran, Wyoming, and lived there for 38 years. He was able to ski regularly on winter days and golf throughout the summer. In 2014, they relocated to Casper, Wyoming. 

After obtaining his PhD, Jim was a professor at California State University, Long Beach, where he was able to conduct research and share his interest in fungi with many students. Jim authored and presented numerous scientific studies, including one featured on the cover of Science magazine's November 7, 1969, issue. In 1987 he received the Distinguished Faculty Scholarly and Creative Achievement Award. His expertise and enthusiasm inspired many and left a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. 

Although Jim traveled the world with research and presentations, he found Slovakia particularly interesting. A recipient of a prestigious Fullbright Scholarship, Jim and Linda lived in Bratislava, Slovakia for six months while Jim lectured at the Comenius University. It was a particularly interesting time as the Soviet Union was dissolving. 

Jim was a model of integrity and kindness for the family he loved deeply and for all who came in contact with him. He will be greatly missed.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his sister Kay Stone; his sister-in-law Sharon Willford; and many cherished nieces and nephews: Diane (Steve) Payne, Chuck Andrews, Jim (Susie) Andrews, Brad Andrews, Susie (Jeff) Hatch, Mike (Connie) Broderick, Ted (Bonnie) Bourret, Suzanne Johnson, Julie (Dennis) Zook, Jonene Day, Wendy (Ed) Beattie, Sherry Maurer, Wade (Roberta) Willford, and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bud and Fern Bourret; his brothers, Bill and Larry Bourret; and his sister, Bonita Broderick.

A memorial service will be held at 11:30 am on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church in Casper, WY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rocky Mountain Parkinsons Association or a charity of the donor’s choice. The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff of Primrose Retirement Facility for their amazingly kind care this past year. Thanks also to the kind care of Home Instead staff.