James Leroy Barth

James Leroy Barth of Boise, Idaho (formerly of Billings, Montana), passed away April 29, 2019, at the age of 75 of natural causes. He was a GREAT father and husband and touched our lives in his own special way.

James enlisted in the United States Army on April 15. 1965. He was in the 1st Cav Division / 2nd Battalion 8th Cav. Shortly after, James was Honorably Discharged on January 23, 1967, due to an injury he sustained in the Vietnam War. Metals and Badges he acquired during his time were the Combat Infantry Badge, Parachutist Badge, National Defense Services Medal and the Purple Heart. He had a deep love for this Country and was very proud to have been able to serve.

Most people would have described James in his younger years as an upbeat, happy go lucky, all-around funny guy that loved to pull pranks and make people laugh. The apples did not fall too far from that tree as his children took on that same sense of humor and the “have fun type of attitude.” In 2007, he had a major stroke, and it was too difficult to be the same man he once was. It eventually took its toll.

James was a loving father of five children. When he married his bride Linda 29 years ago, he was blessed with two more. All of whom he adored! Life was not always perfect, but what life is when you are raising teenagers?

Throughout his life what centered him the most were the mountains. He loved to retreat to the mountains for camping and fishing with his family. Usually during those camping trips target shooting also took place. He took pride in his collection of guns and enjoyed showing off his armory to his eldest son James Jr. The competition began between the two to see who could have the most guns. Some of his favorite camping spots were Sage Hen, Horse Thief Reservoir and beautiful Stanley. There were “many” marshmallow fights that took place back in those camping days. We all created some pretty great memories during all those years.

James was preceded in death by his mother, Bessie Patch, and his father, Robert Barth.

The loved ones that will miss him dearly are his beautiful wife, Linda Barth; James Barth Jr (Robin); Vanessa Newman (Gerald); Stephanie Spragg; Angie Wetherelt (Craig); Frank Creasey; Becky Cox (Eric); and Mike Barth (Darlene).

Grandchildren include: Nick; Courtney; Emily; Kyle; Layton; Jayden; Cale; Carli; Kaden; Christian; Anthony; Mila and Jamison.

Great-grandchildren include: Kaiden (4 ½ yrs.); Abbie (3 ½ months) and Anaia (9 months).

His sisters and brother: Judy Woodman (Jim); Peggy Wangsmo (Mel); Duane Barth; Jerie Fishwild (Jim); and multiple nieces and nephews, all of whom he adored immensely.

There will be a small gathering of family and friends to celebrate his life as well as Military Honors on Tuesday, May 7, 2019, 1:00pm, at the Gazebo located at 3115 Sycamore Drive, Boise, ID 83703.