Scroll to the bottom to watch Jim’s Video. If you would like a Memorial Folder, feel free to stop by the funeral home to pick one up.
James P. Lucas, age 93, passed away of natural causes on April 10, 2020, nine months to the day after the passing of his beloved wife Carol, with his daughter by his side. Jim was born April 7, 1927, in Worland, Wyoming. When he was six months old, his family moved to Miles City, Montana. He was the oldest of five children born to immigrant parents; his Dad Pete from Greece and his Mom Helen, from Germany.
Jim graduated from Custer County High at the age of 16, attended Miles Community College, and then transferred to the University of Montana until he was drafted into the Army. He was stationed at Headquarters in Ft. Sill, Oklahoma as an Artillery Specialist and Military Intelligence Officer until the end of WWII. During this time he was active in Army Athletics including basketball, heavyweight boxing, and he pitched for the 4th Army All-Star Team. After honorable discharge in late 1946, he resumed college at the University of Montana where he became a proud member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity, was UM Student Business Manager, competed at the National finals at West Point for the Debate Team, and played varsity basketball and baseball. Jim received his Bachelor of Arts in 1949, Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration in 1950, and his Juris Doctor in law in 1951.
Jim’s first love was the game of baseball. He was active in American Legion as a pitcher for the State Championship team in high school, and, while attending the University of Montana, Jim spent nine years playing semi-pro baseball with teams in the Northwest and the Canadian League. He was eventually extended an offer to join the Brooklyn Dodgers. He reluctantly turned down the offer, choosing instead the stability of law.
He loved Miles City, and Montana, and was committed to serving its communities, so he returned home upon graduating from law school and entered the legal profession as a partner in the Leavitt and Lucas law firm. He was elected Custer County Attorney, and served in that role for ten years. He believed strongly in education and worked tirelessly for Miles Community College where he served on its Board of Trustees for 59 years, including serving as President of the Endowment. He was appointed Charter Member for the National Fund for Improvement of Post-Secondary Education and received the Regional Trustee Leadership Award for the Western Region of the U.S. in 2008. He was extremely honored when he learned that the Administration Building at MCC was to be named the James P. Lucas Hall.
In 1963, Jim was elected to the Montana House of Representatives where he served five terms and was Speaker of the House from 1969-1972. It was here that he met and fell head over heels for Carol Dunstan, a Butte native working for the Legislative Council. They met in January 1965 and were married July 10, 1965. An avid Grizzly fan, he served as Past President and Trustee for the University of Montana Foundation Board for 27 years, the Alumni Association for 69, and was awarded the University of Montana Distinguished Alumnus in 2000.
Jim got his pilot’s license in order to travel throughout the state and the West. He pursued his passion for flying in his Cessna N46JR. Always active locally, Jim could often be seen delivering apples for Kiwanis and Meals on Wheels, cashiering at the fair booth or taking his turn at the Elks Auction. A devout Methodist, Jim served on numerous committees and remained active throughout his life. He served on many Boards of Directors for companies such as Montana Power, USWest, the Mountain States Legal Foundation, the Montana Chamber of Commerce, Burton K. Wheeler Center at M.S.U., Entech Energy Company, and many more.
He announced his retirement in 2009 as senior partner of Lucas & Tonn P.C. Law Firm, but he couldn’t stay away from the law and continued practicing full time until he was 87, when health concerns forced his true retirement. Most of all, his greatest love was Carol, whom he called “my sweetheart”. She was his partner and his foundation, who stood by him, took care of him and, along with his kids, made his life joyful. She passed away on their 54th wedding anniversary last July.
Several weeks before his passing he told his daughter that he wanted people to know that “he gave thanks every day for his full, wonderful, meaningful life and was filled with deep love for his wife and family, and all the circumstances which allowed him so many great experiences and accomplishments. For the recollections of the many moments of humor, excitement, travel, adventure and dear friendships. These memories sustained him throughout his absence from Montana the past several years and for that he was incredibly grateful. He held great love of the state of Montana, his community and the United States.”
Jim touched many lives. He had a keen intellect, a great sense of humor, an infectious laugh, sparkling eyes, and an immense strength of character. He will be dearly missed. He leaves behind; James II (Holly) of San Antonio, TX; Mark (Rachel) of Carmichael, CA; Leslie of Winter Garden, FL; Todd (Robbi) of Winter Garden, FL, 11 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Carol, his parents and four siblings, Don, Dorothy Ann, Betty, and Bob.
Memorial gifts may be made to the Miles Community College Endowment, the Miles City Methodist Church, and the Range Riders Museum, or the charity of choice.
Public funeral services will be posted as soon as state and local officials lift the social distancing requirements as well as travel restrictions in our area due to COVID-19.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Share
Grant Mosby says
I have known Jim and his family for decades. Jim, as an attorney, handled my folks estate impeccably. I remained in communication with him for many years and when visiting Miles City we seemed to always,
at least, have lunch together. Always a most pleasurable time.
He will be missed.
Mollie Phipps says
May you and Carol rest in the arms of angels and be at peace!!
Lisa Mullen says
Jim and my dad (and grandpa) were incredibly close. My first memories of Mr. Lucas were from breakfast at the 4B’s while he and my dad had monthly business meetings. I still, to this day remember that he ordered two poached eggs, in a bowl, with sourdough toast. The Lucas’ house was the favorite spot to trick or treat and I always felt warmth in their home. Jim had a calmness about him that I will continue to look up to for the rest of my life. I saw him as an honorary grandfather and will miss him dearly. My condolences to his children, grandchildren, and many friends and colleagues.
Mary Ann Stockhill Liles says
Dear Leslie, Todd and families of Jim and Carol Lucas,
The Lucas and Stockhill families go back a long way and our times together were filled with wonderful memories. When my own dad passed away, I felt that Jim was a worthy replacement for that sage advice a father gives. As a teenager, I was sometimes privy to the jokes between Dad, Jim Lucas, Don Mullen, Jerry Rowen and other grown men who liked to play outrageous pranks on one another. Many times I carried some private joke to Jim’s offices and witnessed his elegant response, always understated, extremely witty and clever. He was the undisputed winner in these games. We’ve never met a smarter man than Jim. As a couple, Jim and Carol were warm, caring and classy. Both gave generously of their time to church families and friends alike. We’ll miss and love them always. God bless Jim Lucas.
Mary Ann Stockhill Liles & Jim Liles
Terry becker says
Rest in peace Jim, you were always a loyal friend ,I will miss our friendly breakfasts . The lord will enjoy having you in heaven.
MARTHA CRANDALL says
My sympathy.
A j and Bernice Nelson says
Bernice and I extend our deepest sympathy to the families of Jim and carol. We will miss him. I’m sure the good lord is watching over them.
Pam Rogge says
My thoughts and prayers are with the Lucas family at this time. So many good memories of Jim and Carol and I take comfort in she was waiting for him and for that next dance! May God bless you now and in the days ahead.
Gene and Judith Griffith says
Leslie & Family:
Judith and I want you to know how sad we are to learn of Jim’s passing. We consider Jim and Carol among our dearest friends and we were richly blessed to have known them. May God bless the family and may Jim and Carol Rest In Peace. We hope you find some consolation in knowing that others share your sorrow in this loss.
Cheryl Rainey Yasuda says
Jim handled my Dad’s estate for free in 1966 for my mother who was widowed suddenly at age 42 with 6 children at home ages 3-15. Carol came to my high school Home Economics class and taught us to make Sarna, a type of cabbage rolls that I cook for my family today. Such a wonderful couple that will be missed, but have left a legacy of goodness for their family to treasure.
Doug and Lucy Benge says
Our condolences to all the Lucas family. Seems like we’ve known them in some capacity forever. Among many attributes, Jim and Carol were always kind, interested and cordial to everyone, all generations. They were community minded, generous, and very social and loyal Griz. Tried to teach us to rhumba but we never got it. Jim had a keen legal mind, even tempered, articulate and somehow found time to be a champion prankster with clever letters. Miles City already misses them. Best wishes to all family.
Doug and Lucy Benge
Garth Sleight says
During my 34 years at Miles Community College, there were two people in particular whose passing I always dreaded: Jud Flower and Jim Lucas, both of whom were very close friends of one another and were an integral part of Miles Community College–in fact–of the entire state of Montana. Jud reflected with fondness on the many times he and Jim played handball in a handball court that was upstairs from Jim’s law office. They were also avid golfers and spent a lot of time together on the links. Both Jim and Jud were so incredibly supportive of me personally, as well as of my family, and the College. Jud went first not too long ago. Now it’s Jim’s turn. They were venerable pillars of Miles City.
My sincere condolences go out to the families of Jim and Carol Lucas. Together Jim and Carol left a great legacy and heritage for their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and beyond! Rest in peace. You deserve it!
Butch Stallard says
Jim and Carol were always at meetings and social gathering with my parents. We played golf together many times. They were our neighbors on the golf course. Always cherished the one-on-conversations about life in Miles City.. Adios my friend.
Denise R Harvey says
To all of Jim’s family and friends,
Thank you for sharing your father with us for so many years! His impact and contributions to our community has made us all better! We will miss him and Carol but what a joyous reunion for them!
Denise and Jay Harvey
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
It is with great sadness that I write this. Jim was an extraordinary man: gentle, kind, a leader, and a real gentleman through & through. He cared so much for little ole Miles City and it’s success. We will all miss him terribly.
Sheila Marlenee Wolff says
Leslie and family,
My heart breaks for you with the loss of your father. What a legacy he leaves as well as being an exemplary person in many things. So many good things to remember about your father.
Sincerely,
Sheila ‘Marlenee’ Wolff
Barb and Jim Nelstead says
Lucas Family,
Sorry to see the passing of Jim. He was truly a life long friend of the family. Growing up I heard many stories of how he and my father were teammates play baseball together in Miles City.
Rest in peace Jim….
Tom and Lillian Ostendorf says
May you rest in peace Jim. Our condolences to all the family. Jim and Carol were very special people.
Lance Clark says
Dear Leslie, Todd and families of Jim and Carol Lucas:
Jim will be missed.
His business acumen as an attorney, a political leader and statesman in the Montana Legislature and his community advocacy will long be remembered.
Lance Clark, Miles City
Darlene Clark, Miles City
Lance Clark says
May God bless and embrace you!
In this time of loss, hope, faith and love bring healing.
May the memories be boundless treasures in your lives.
Tammy mallett Pecha says
So sorry for your loss Jim was an awesome man.
Roger Provost says
A man who was truly “Miles” above the rest.
B Dean Holmes says
Miles City lost one of her very special people. Rest in Peace.
Connie and Gene Bankey says
Leslie ,Todd and families, – Connie and I send our condolences and prayers. Connie enjoyed the visits with Jim and Carol on her walks and always came home to share the nice time shared with them.
Shawna Scanlan McBride says
Blessings, love, light and healing strength to Jim, Jr. and family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Great man, great family.
Maureen Larson says
My sincere condolences to all of the Lucas family. You myst have many wonderful memories and I pray they give you comfort in this difficult time. Rest in peace, Jim.
George and Maggie Holom says
We extend our sympathy to the Lucas family. We enjoyed the friendship and business relationship with Jim for many years. May Jim and Carol enjoy Eternal Peace together now. 🙏🏻
Joan Schmidt Eddy Bunke says
To the families of Jim & Carol Lucas,
Please accept my condolences and deepest sympathies. Jim and Carol were our neighbors for years. My youngest daughter, Leah Eddy, became friends with Carol and Jim as she made her roundabout way to Highland Park School. Soon, Carol hosting the neighborhood kids in her home and pool. She named her young friends/students, ”The Kids on Sudlow Street”
Carol taught the girls baking. She also let them play in the pool. But….the byproduct of playing was stirring the water up which helped clean the pool, pool was cleaned and all were happy.
Carol and Jim were gentle souls who gave by the act of giving of themselves.
God Bless.
Burch and Linda Palmer says
Jim was a champion in all respects. RIP Jim. Burch and Linda
Linda Winkley says
I will always remember Jim and “the coffee guys” at 4B’s. And the day I met Ben Johnson, “Sleeve”! They got such a laugh, ‘ cause I called him sleeve! I couldn’t think of his name!! We all had a good laugh. About 2 weeks later, Ben Johnson sent me 2 autographed pictures!!
I’m so sorry for your loss, what a guy!
Linda Winkley
Linda Winkley says
I will always remember Jim and “the coffee guys” at 4B’s. And the day I met Ben Johnson, “Sleeve”! They got such a laugh, ‘ cause I called him sleeve! I couldn’t think of his name!! We all had a good laugh. About 2 weeks later, Ben Johnson sent me 2 autographed pictures!!
I’m so sorry for your loss, what a guy!
Paul Mottram says
To the Lucas family Gerry and I are sorry for your loss. I served on many of the boards and commities with Jim when living in Miles City. Many will miss him.
Diane Welbes says
Sorry to hear about your loss. May it comfort you to know that I care.
Terri (Jardine) and Ray Schmidt says
We are so sorry for your loss of your father. What a great man he was. I know our dad thought the world of him and I have memories of him sending us postcards and drawing little stick figures where he was. I also remember going to Jim and Carol’s wedding as a girl in junior high and how beautiful it was. I always likened Carol to a beautiful movie star or princess with such elegance and grace yet so much humility. Jim will be sorely missed by so many in Miles City as he and Carol touched so many people in so many ways. PLease know that we are thinking of you during this difficult time.
LaVerne Jones Hebner says
Our sympathy on the loss of your dad who was always a sports hero of the younger kids and someone to be proud to know when we got older. He served Miles City, the state and country well. He and Carol were good neighbors and friends of my mom and dad in later years. May you have comfort and peace knowing he is safely in God’s hands. Rest in peace, Jim.
LaVerne (Jones), Elwin and Jack Hebner
Colorado
Carroll Vernon South says
I have admired Jim since I met him many years ago. After I left Miles City in 1981, Jim assisted my parents whenever they needed legal help. I succeeded him in the Montana Legislature and I recall how those who had served with him had a great deal of respect for him. Jim was a kind, compassionate gentleman and the world would be a much better place if we had many more like him.
Carroll South
Carolyn Hays says
Goodbye to a wonderful man. Jim was a great friend to both of my parents. He was instramental in getting my step father, Emanual Hasapis, to get his citizenship by doing one of his famous tricks. He told in Dad that the immigration authorities had been snooping around on a report of an alien. Not so but it sure got dad in gear. Jim and Carol were always so glad to see us and kept track of us as if we were part of their family. He handled all of our family’s legal affairs over the years and did a wonderful job. To a gentle and wonderful man-we will miss you!
Jim & Roxanne Thompson says
Jim was a “Champion of Miles City”, always available to help in any way he could. He was a friend of our family ever since I can remember and a shining light for our Methodist church family. Socially and professionally he will definitely be missed by the community. A true gentleman who cared deeply about our little part of the world, whether it be the street dance at Bucking Horse Sale or a personal legal problem. We CELEBRATE your amazing life Old Friend and offer our thoughts and prayers to friends and family. Rest in peace with the Lord.
Carol Bean says
Todd & Robbi. So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. I always held the utmost respect for him. He was so smart, but yet so humble and kind. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you remember your dad.
Patti (Green) Ireland says
To Jim’s children, I’m so sorry for your loss. Your dad was in high school with my dad, so they were friends for a long time. When I went with my dad to create his final will and testament, Jim helped us maneuver through some of the difficulties facing our family with grace and compassion. Later, when I was faced with decisions as guardian, I could call him anytime (even at home) and he would guide me. I remember dropping by his house on the the golf course to bring Jim some fresh halibut that I brought from Alaska to say “Thanks”. He was a wonderful man and I pray that God will wrap you in His arms as you grieve.
Jan Andrews says
Mike and I send our love and prayers for your peace and comfort as you mourn the loss of this beautiful man.
Michele mizrahi says
Just loved his spirit and his quick wit. He was so special
May his memory be a blessing
Michele mizrahi and family
Jamie and Kristy Ogolin says
Les, Todd, and all of your family, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and have been as you have gone through a difficult year. We are blessed to have crossed paths with your family! I am forever grateful that I accepted the invitation of Carol and Jim to apply for a science teaching job in Miles City. We have many great memories of spending time with all of you. Rest in peace Jim.
Judy Brown says
Our sincerest sympathy to all on the loss of your loved one. Our families were so connected for so many years whether it was church, civic or family related. He and Carol will always have a legacy in Miles City and their loss will be felt forever. Hold your memories close as many will also.
Sincerely,
Judy Brown
Lawrence Torstenbo says
My deepest sympathy to the Lucas family! May the Lord’s blessings and graces be bestowed upon you all! The community lost a real Jewell of a man! Rest In Peace my dear friend!
Larry Torstenbo
Bev and Don Ogolin says
Our sincere sympathy to all of your family. Jim was a great man and will be missed. With love, Bev and Don
Bruce Wilson says
Jim is an unforgettable man . He did so much for Miles City, and for the state of Montana . As so many, he was our family attorney but more importantly our family friend.
I don’t remember ever attending a funeral in Miles city where Jim was not present .
Condolences to all the family .
Nadine (Warn) Whitehead says
Sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a good friend to my dad years back. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time.
Cheryl Grenz says
A lovely man. Both Jim and Carol were such special people, kind, caring and genuine. Many family connections over many years. Both were especially kind when my Tom passed away in 1998.
Vicki (Haynes) Larson says
I am sorry for your loss. May Jim and Carol Rest In Peace together.
Frank Tooke says
Jim was a mentor to many and a friend to most. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Stuart Brown says
Condolences from the Bruce Brown family.
Rob Shipley says
We all know him as a legend in his own time. The Lucas family and Shipley family owned three {3} different airplanes, and, a lot of Miles City property. Teaching Jim to fly was one of Ship’s happiest achievements.
I can remember and write well pages and pages and pages of all Jim Lucas became. My genius father and Jim Lucas evinced an eleven {11} years lawsuit battle with EXXON USA. And, Jim never charged Dad a dime {10c}.After Jim did everything perfectly probating Mary’s estate, the IRS persecuted me for another $167,xxx.
The IRS spent and wasted more than eight {8] years and $300,000 trying to get me into prison for five [5] years and pay them 1/6 th of a million dollars. Holy Father GOD and Jim Lucas stopped all of that. For these last 35 years I have loved and regarded Jim always as my, “Almost adoptive father”.
He was in his own right as great a man and as wonderful an American as were Jefferson and Madison and Benjamin Franklin and General Nelson A. Miles.
Thana Fischer says
Blessings from the Nightingale family to the Lucas family,
… so sad to hear of Jim’s passing. I was able to visit with him for a minute in Miles City about 7 years ago at the 600 Cafe. My crew with United Blood Services were in town for a blood drive and we had breakfast at the 600. I was so delighted to see him. It is difficult to let our matriarchs and patriarchs go, for then we have to take their place. His will be large shoes to fill.
Love, Thana
Ellen Bergman says
So sorry to hear of jim’s Death. He was and Carol
were great friends and neighbors. I had
Already moved away , but still miss them
Both. My best to Todd and Leslie, as well
As Jim’s two older boys. Ellen Bergman
Chai Chapmons says
Leslie, Todd and family, sorry for the loss of your father, a great man and champion of our community. Our thought and prayer are with you all. With the Lord blessings Jim and Carol are together again.
Josh Rohloff says
Thoughts and prayers to the Lucas family. What a pillar of the Miles City and Montana community. Always greeted people with a genuine smile. RIP Jim.
Bill Johnston says
Through my work at the University of Montana I had the pleasure of visiting Miles City often. I always enjoyed the trip. Wonderful people and wonderful UM alumni and supporters. Two of the finest were Jim and Carol. Jim was so welcoming and inclusive. Carol too. Jim’s support of UM is legendary. His work in the state legislative sessions continues to shape how our state operates today.
A life well lived. Rest in peace Jim – and Carol.
Bill Johnston
UM Alumni Association
CEO and President, emeritus
Ed and Janet Young says
We were so very lucky that he loved Miles City ad brought his beautiful wife with hime
Marcus Hartse says
Our sympathies go out to the Lucas family. Jim always had a good word to say and was always respected greatly by our family. Rest In Peace.
Chris Choate Raible says
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your wonderful dad. He was always so kind and took time to ask how you were. What a caring man who left quite a legacy for his family. Love and prayers to you all.
Chris Choate Raible
Nancy Ugrin-Bond snd David T. Bond, Darnestown, Maryland says
Dear Les and Todd and your respective families-Please accept our dearest sympathy for the loss of your dad. Few men bring finer memories of our hometown than those days I would see your dad at Miles City Aero Service, excited to return home from flying, or the Chamber of Commerce banquets and various community meetings where his presence was so welcome as it always brought us such clarity and reason over many topics that came across our meeting agendas. It’s safe to say that he and your lovely mom are together again as a happy lifelong couple should be. Take comfort in that each day. God bless.
Nancy Ugrin Bond, and David T. Bond, Darnestown, Maryland.
Ronetta Andersen Yracheta says
Leslie, your tribute was so well written and the love and pride you have for your dad and mom shined through. As you know I lost my dad just 10 days after you guys. Your post, although bringing me to a stream of tears, really hit my heart in such a positive way! Dad always admired your dad and maybe they’re up there swapping stories of Miles City back in the day! I am so sorry for your loss Leslie, Todd, Robbi, and your whole family. I am thinking of you and sending lots of love and admiration to all of you.
Love, Ronetta
Pat Williams says
Jim and I served together in the Montana House of Representatives and I was shaken by both his and Carol’s passing. She was a lifetime friend ( like me and my wife Carol, she too was a kid from Butte )
I would appreciate learning the where-abouts of Jim’s brother Bob. He and I were pals at the U of M, which we both attended during the late 1950s.
Perhaps someone could inform me at: pwilliams@montanadsl.net
Thanks,
Pat Williams