Smittkamp, James C.

James C. Smittkamp, of 5342 Desert Mountain Ct., Boulder, CO 80301, lost his 4 1/2-year battle against cancer on March 7, 2010, at Hospice of Boulder.

Jim was born Jan. 24, 1952, to James H. and LeAnne Smittkamp in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He participated in many sports, theater and other school activities, always while working to earn a few dollars. Jim graduated from Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Iowa. He later graduated from Creighton University with a law degree, passed the bar and became licensed to practice law in Colorado, Iowa and Nebraska.

It was at Creighton that he met his dear wife, Irene Pratkelis, to whom he was happily married to for nearly 30 years and eternally devoted.

Jim's working life was spent practicing law, most recently with Smittkamp & Walters, where he aggressively represented his friends and the people of Boulder.

Jim was an Eagle Scout and with these learned scouting skills he formed Cub Scout Pack 174 of Sacred Heart of Jesus and was the cubmaster, continuing on in an active capacity with Boy Scout Troop 72. Jim's three sons, Jimmy-Alex, Justin and Grant, under Jim's fatherly guidance, became Eagle Scouts. Jim actively participated in civic affairs of his community and he loved traveling both locally and to distant places with Irene and his family.

He is survived by his wife, Irene; four children, Kristi, Jimmy-Alex, Justin and Grant; mother-in-law, Mary Pratkelis; brothers, Terry, Chad and Matthew; father, James H.; sisters, Leah and Robin; and many cousins, aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his mother, LeAnne.

Jim's family was the most important part of his life.

He dearly loved his wife, Irene, and was a loving father and a trusted friend to many.

A memorial has been established in Jim's name; friends may contribute to Hospice of Boulder.