James Hugh Walsh, 80, former district manager for Rocky Mountain Oil and Gas, died in his Billings home on Saturday evening, Feb. 11, 2006.

He was born Aug. 18, 1925, in Nampa, Idaho, a son to Stephen Kelly and Edna (Yaryan) Walsh. He grew up in Casper, Wyo., and graduated from Natrona County High School in 1943, where he lettered in basketball his junior and senior years.

Mr. Walsh joined the Army following high school and became part of the 106th Infantry Division. He took part in the Battle of the Bulge, where he sustained injuries and was missing in action briefly.

After the war he enrolled at the University of Wyoming, graduating in 1950 with a degree in business. He went on to work for Rocky Mountain Oil and Gas. He also served as a lobbyist for several years during Montana legislative sessions.

Mr. Walsh was a lifetime member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, American Legion and a charter member of the Washington World War II Memorial. He was also a member of the Forty and Eight and the Golden Lion of the 106th Infantry Division.

Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Ann Walsh (Gorman); brother, John Walsh; daughter, Susan Kraft; stepsons, Brad Terrell and Steve Terrell; 11 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary in Billings. Memorials may be made to Big Sky Hospice.
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