James Murtha Obituary

Murtha
James Daggett Murtha
October 25, 1928
July 6, 2023

James "Jim" Murtha passed away, at home in Colorado Springs, on July 6, 2023. He was 94. He was preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte of 70 years, his son, James (Jim) and twin daughters, Jennifer and Janna. Jim is survived by his daughters, Gayle Murtha Nevin and her husband Thomas VanDyke, Michelle Murtha Guenther and her husband Stephen Guenther, grandson Sean Guenther, granddaughter Erin Guenther and several nieces and nephews. He was lovingly known, to his close family and friends, as "Bud".
Jim was born in Bangor, Maine to James and Ruby Murtha. He attended Maine Central Institute, Bowdoin College and graduated from the University of Maine in 1954, as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, with a degree in Civil Engineering.
Jim's service to our country would span 21 years. He served in Korea and the Vietnam war. He was awarded the Bronze Star and several other decorations for his tour in Vietnam and many years of active duty. He retired as a Lt. Colonel in 1975.
Post retirement would take Jim and Charlotte to Saudi Arabia for 10 years, where they enjoyed the experience of a contractor's life abroad. They returned home in 1987. Jim would go back overseas, this time to Somalia, contracting for another year.
Jim was the consummate entertainer and so full of life. With his love for playing the Sax, he joined The New Horizons band in 2002. Associated with New Horizons, he would go on to play for the Gold Band, Jazz Band and, for the past 14 years, The Dixie Duezers. The Duezers have entertained, at senior centers, all around the city with their Big Band and Jazz repertoires. His favorite gigs centered around St. Patrick's Day, where his Irish heritage shone through. Jim was still actively playing at the time of his passing.
Jim lived life to the fullest, loved his family more than life itself and was proud of his country and his service. He finally took his Honor Flight in April. He said it was the trip of a lifetime. Jim's love of flying and military aircraft never left you wondering what flew in the sky. He knew them all.
Jim will be interred, with full military honors, next summer in Jackman, Maine. Charlotte's remains will join him. A Catholic mass will precede the graveside service.
No service will be held in Colorado Springs. Family and friends are welcome to join us for a celebration of Jim's life, at 2724 Westwood Blvd, on Aug 13 from noon to 3:00. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Vietnam Veterans of America.
We love you, Dad, and will miss you eternally.
"And we continue to march"