Jim Longwell

Jim Longwell, 91, of Montrose, passed away Friday, February 7, 2025, at Elk Ridge Health and Rehabilitation Center.

Jim was born February 24, 1933 in Montrose, Colorado to James O. and Lottie Longwell in Shavano Valley. He attended Oak Grove Elementary School and graduated from Montrose High School in 1950. He married Barbara Sanburg and they were married for 67 years. They have two children, David and Debra. They lived in Shavano Valley and farmed and raised cattle. They had a grazing permit “between the Reds” in Hank’s Valley.

Jim was the first State 4-H President in 1947. He was also a 10-year 4-H member and 4-H leader, FFA member and FFA Father sponsor.

Jim was always active in his community. He was a Sheriff’s Posse member, President of Jaycees, Montrose Chamber president in 1979, and a member of the Elks Lodge, to name a few. He was very involved helping his kids in 4-H with their steers. He worked for Co-op 4 years, managed it for 10 years and was on the Coop board several years. He coached Co-op’s women’s softball team 10-12 years.

He was the manager of Four Corners Weed Control.

Jim enjoyed riding 4-wheelers with Barb and, of course, Brandy. She had a special platform on the back of his 4-wheeler.

He is survived by his children, David (Lori) Longwell and Debra (Roger) Hayward. He has 16 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

He was in Elk Ridge for 3 years and they took excellent care of him. He was also under the care of Hospice towards the end.

He was a member and retired Deacon of the Rosemont Baptist Church.

A memorial service is planned on March 1, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Rosemont Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, you can donate to Hope West, 725 South 4th St., Montrose, CO 81401.

Streaming information:

Streaming will start 5-10 minutes before the start of the service. You can access the streaming using any of the following links:  

www.RosemontBaptist.org/sermons/live 

www.facebook.com/RosemontBaptist 

www.youtube.com/@RosemontBaptistChurch