James “Jim” Hoss passed away Sept. 21, 2024. He was born April 24, 1940, in Antioch, Calif., to James H. and Dora (Carson) Hoss and grew up in Hope, Idaho. 

Jim graduated from Sandpoint High School in 1958 and attended North Idaho Junior College before transferring to the University of Nevada at Reno, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1965. He later earned a master’s degree in psychology. 

On Aug. 8, 1961, Jim married Sandy Schooler at the First Presbyterian Church in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. They raised four children while Jim served as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force, flying the F-4 Phantom, Wild Weasel. His 26-year military career included a tour of duty in Vietnam and assignments in California, Florida, Texas, Colorado, Alaska, Hawaii, and Germany. 

After retiring in 1988, Jim co-founded Colorado Safari Outfitting and later worked in juvenile corrections until retiring fully in 2003. He then traveled the world, returning to Coeur d’Alene in 2013. 

Jim is survived by his children: Linda Hoss (Debbie) of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Lori Dudas (Barney) of Lithia, Fla., Jim Hoss (Shannon) of Hayden, Idaho, and Kathy Boatwright (Tim) of Vienna, Va.; sister June Entringer of Albuquerque, N.M.; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandy; parents James and Dora; and brother Robert.

Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service with military honors at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Riverview Cemetery, 1060 Lincoln Way Coeur d'Alene. A memorial service and reception will follow at 2 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 521 E. Lakeside Ave., Coeur d’Alene.

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with final arrangements. Please visit Jim’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at yatesfuneralhomes.com.