George LaOrange

Memorial services for George J. ?Jim? LaOrange will be at 11:00 am Saturday, February 24, 2007 at Stevenson-Wilson Funeral Home with Pastor Joel Wright and Pastor Peggy Brown officiating. Military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post #42.Jim LaOrange, age 77, of Gillette, Wyoming passed away peacefully at home in his wife?s arms.Jim was born on July 20, 1929 in Hoisington, Kansas to Alfred and Belle (Butler) LaOrange. He grew up in Hoisington and graduated from Hoisington High School in 1947. After graduation he went to Kansas State University in 1948. Jim left college and worked as a carpenter and at other various jobs until being drafted in February 1951. He served in the Korean War and was honorably discharged in February 1953. Jim moved to Great Bend, Kansas and married Kathryn ?Kay? Mohn on November 21, 1953. He then worked for MISCO Supply and later was transferred to Gillette, Wyoming in June of 1960. After 10 years with MISCO, Jim went to work for Davis Oil. After several years Jim left Davis Oil and went to work for L & H Welding, retiring in 1991. Jim was a very active member of the Gillette Jaycee?s holding various offices with them. He was an active member in the American Legion Post #42 and a member of the Drill Team for over 40 years. He belonged to the VFW in Hoisington, Kansas and the IOOF. Jim loved going on golf trips, gardening, and spending time with his family.Jim is survived by his wife Kay of 53 years; one son Michael of San Francisco, California; two sisters: Jean New of Derby, Kansas and Gloria Kline of Denver, Colorado; and nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, his adopted mother Evelyn, one son Thomas J., and his sister Edith.Memorials may be made to the American Legion Post #42 Drill Team. Condolences may be sent in care of Stevenson-Wilson Funeral Home 210 W. 5th Street, Gillette, Wyoming 82716 or via the internet at www.stevensonwilson.com.