James Hermansen Obituary

May 23, 1929 - April 3, 2008. James "Jim" Hermansen, 78, a loving husband and father, passed away on April 3, 2008 while under hospice care during a brave battle to conquer leukemia. He was born May 23, 1929 in Brooklyn, New York to Harold Hermansen and Dagmar Nelson. At age 16, he joined the Merchant Marines. In 1951, Jim arrived at Camp (Fort) Carson to serve in the U.S. Army. He liked Colorado Springs so much, he decided to stay after his military service and joined the Colorado Springs Police Department in 1953. After 26 years, Sergeant Hermansen retired in 1979. He then worked as an El Paso County Court Bailiff for a few years and for the U.S. Olympic Committee for 13 years, retiring as Manager of Security. Jim enjoyed being around people and just wasn't able to stay retired. He worked at Office Max for five years and then became the Theater House Manager of the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, leaving there in 2006 shortly before being diagnosed with leukemia. On June 10, 2000, Jim married Barbara Koschel, who survives. He is also survived by three sisters and their families -- Marie Woods of Margate, Florida; Dagmar Sheridan of Hudson, Florida and Ruth Grant of Bellmore, New York; a half brother, William F. Lightell (Debbie) of Bradenton, Florida; daughter, Lisa (Gary) Bonner and daughter-in-law, Stella Hermansen, both of Colorado Springs; a brother-in-law and his wife, Doug and Karen Koschel, and nieces, Jen and Suzy Koschel, five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and a dear family friend, Ellen Brock of Chula Vista, California. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his son, James Brian Hermansen and a brother, William H. Hermansen. During the 16 months of his illness Jim developed close ties to the members of the Memorial Hospital Oncology Unit, Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers, Center at Centennial Rehabilitation Hospital and Odyssey Hospice. Once anyone got to know Jim, he left an unforgettable impression on them. All those who cared for Jim will hold a special place in the hearts of his family. Jim's family would also like to thank everyone for their prayers, calls, cards, emails and constant concerns and willingness to help throughout his brave cancer journey. A memorial service will be held at Rock of Ages Lutheran Church, 120 North 31st Street on Sunday, April 13, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Association, Rocky Mountain Chapter, 5353 W. Dartmouth Avenue, #400, Denver, CO 80227, or Rock of Ages Lutheran Church.