James Sammy Coates

Jimmy

1958 – 2025

… An Angler's Prayer…

I pray that I may fish until my dying day, and, when it comes to my last cast; I then mkost humbly pray, when in the Lord's great landing net and peacefully asleep; that his mercy I be judged big enough to keep.

Jim died peacefully in his sleep on the morning of March 21, 2025. Jim was raised in Walkerville, MT, and lived out his life on the hill. He was born to Mary (Gachina) and Melvin Coates on March 7, 1958. March 7 was such a special day for Jim as he was honored to share his birthday with his brother John and nephew Lyle Ford.

Jim attended the Sherman School as a Sherman Cub until its closure, Kennedy Elementary, West Junior High, and he graduated from Butte High School with the class of 1977.

Jim married his high school sweetheart Patsy Powers at the St. Lawrence Church on July 21, 1979, in Walkerville. They were blessed to share 45 years of marriage. From this union, they raised three remarkable sons Jason, Shawn, and Casey; all of whom he was exceptionally proud.

Jim was employed by Montana Resources before becoming employed by C.C.C.S. where he worked as Transportation Coordinator.

Jim loved his family wholeheartedly. He supported Jason and Shawn in various sports activities. Coaching them in wrestling and little guy football. He was always delighted to bring Casey to the Special Olympic events. He was incredibly proud of his grandchildren and found great joy in watching and cheering them. Maverick was his loyal four-legged companion who was known to claim the front seat of the truck, a spot usually held for Patsy.

As a child, Jim cherished a quilt his mother made for him. He held on to this tattered quilt for years, and when Jim started dialysis his wife Patsy had the quilt repaired. Jim found great comfort, using it during his treatments. He felt the love and comfort of his mother during those times.

Jim was a man of great wit and had a way of making people feel at ease. Never missing an opportunity to visit with anyone, making new friends wherever he went. Anyone who knew Jim, knew he was a master storyteller. He often spun the truth, making the story a tall tale. A trait that was fitting for his love of fishing. His fishing stories full of exaggeration and adventure will be remembered by all who heard them.

Jim is survived by his caring and loving wife Patsy and his sons Jason (Karla), Shawn (Noelle), and Casey Coates. Beloved grandchildren Jaxon Patrick, Kooper Michael, Tenyson James, Olivia Rose Coates, and Jaci Stillwagon.

Bonus grandchild Kelsea Kay Baker.

Surviving brothers and sister John (Sis) Coates, Mark Coates, and Sissie Coates. Brothers and sisters-in-law Jerry (Sharon) Powers, Don (Lori) Powers, Tim Powers, Dan Powers, Greg (Joani) Powers, and Kim (Scott) Cook. Numerous nieces, nephews and lifelong friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mary and Mel (Dange) Coates, parents-in-law Ed and Vilma Powers, sister Sharon Axtnam, sister and brother-in-law Liann and Carmel (Chico) Ramirez, sister-in-law Jill Powers, nieces Teresa and Sheri Wine, and Tonya Coates.

Pasty would like to express her appreciation for all the support, help and prayers received from Jason, Shawn, Noelle, Kooper, Tenny, and Olivia., Jim's siblings and Patsy's siblings in particular Danny & Greg Powers and Kim Cook. Jim and I are deeply grateful for the love and support we've received from our family and friends. We could not have reached this point without your unwavering help. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you- words cannot fully express our gratitude.

A celebration of life will be held at St Patrick's Church on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 11:00 am with visitation starting at 10:00 am.   Memorials are suggested to the Mountain View Social Development Center, 2100 Farragut St., Butte, MT 59701, AWARE, 237 E. Mercury St, Butte,, MT 59701, or the charity of the donor's choice.