James Carter McMinimee

April 2, 1961 - May 10, 2012

On May 10th, 2012, the world lost an incredible son, husband, father, friend, and human being. Jim McMinimee died of natural causes is Washington, DC. He was 51.

Jim was born in Ames, Iowa and graduated from Heritage High School in Littleton, Co. in 1979. Upon receiving his bachelor's in civil engineering from the University of Utah, Jim started working for UDOT, beginning a 25-year career of dedicated service. During his time at the state, Jim worked as Region 2 director (the youngest region director UDOT history), worked on Olympic operations, and served as Director of Project Development and Chief Engineer. He brought national recognition to himself and our state through his pioneering work in accelerated bridge construction and CMGC contracting. Later he worked as a consultant for ARA and AASHTO.

When not moving bridges and jet setting to speaking engagements, Jim was a dedicated family man, enjoying international vacations and Lake Powell excursions. Following his very brief career as a Utah football player, he was an unwavering supporter of the Utes, traveling frequently to games. As a youth football and basketball coach, he was a friend and mentor to dozens of young athletes. He was also an enthusiastic outdoorsman and spent much time hunting, hiking, and camping in the open spaces of Utah that he loved.

Jim is survived by his wife Sally; his children Connor, Kate, and Sean; his parents Andy and Sharon; his brothers Dan and Tom; his nieces, nephews, and innumerable friends and close associates. He is preceded in death by his infant son Patrick. He will be remembered for the passion and vitality he infused into everything he did, and for the unique mark he made on the lives of all who knew him.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated on May 18th, 2012 at 4:00 PM at Saint Ambrose Parish. A celebration of Jim's life will be held at 5:00 PM the same day with details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the James McMinimee "Pay It Back" Fund, a donor advised fund created to assist the charitable causes that Jim believed in, including youth athletics, Judge Memorial, wildlife conservation, and the University of Utah. Please send donations to the Community Foundation of Utah, 6550 Millrock Dr, Suite 125, Salt Lake City, UT 84121.

 

In Loving Memory

Dear Sally, family and friends, I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. May the Lord give you comfort in these difficult times. My deepest condolences go out to Jim and his family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Being a great friend in HS has brought back many memories with Jim - football and basketball teammates - zipping around in his "sporty" yellow Chevette (surprised that car lasted as long as it did) - riding mopeds in the rain - ski trips to U of U - just hanging out - and much more. Through the years Jim and I graduated from HS together, then from college, got married to wonderful ladies and started our families and careers. We now have some very fine young men and women we know as our sons and daughters. Although we did not see each other in recent years due to distance, we kept in touch through FB and Christmas cards. I will always remember you, Jim, and it is an honor to be a part of your life. Thank you! RIP, my friend!! John Lennon

John Lennon

Chapel Hill, NC

Dear McMinimee family- I was so sad to hear of Jim's death. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. With love, Bob Imhoff

Bob Imhoff

Salt Lake City, UT

Sally, Connor, Kate, and Sean, We are so shocked with Jim's passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to each of you. We came across a thought the other day: True friendship isn't about being inseparable, it's being separated and nothing changes. This was exemplified when after so many years we came together for the memorable 2009 Sugar Bowl. Such great times and fond memories of our years together sharing newlywed experiences. Then for Jim and Bill to visit regularly these last couple of years while in DC were very special. It's hard to believe that plans for future travel experiences together will not take place. He will be missed. We love him and you. Please let us know if we can do anything for you. Love, Bill and Lisa McDonald

Bill and LIsa McDonald

Fairview Heights, IL

We at PARA were sorry to learn of Jim"s death. He was such a positive influence in our sports program and dedicated his time to coaching and providing valuable suggestions for the program. John Morrell PARA President

john w morrell

west valley city,, ut

Mt condolences on the passing of Jim. he was a good man and teaching his three children in high school. My prayer are with you, Stanley Finn Judge Memorial.

stanley finn

salt lake, ut

Sally & Family, During Jim's time at ARA I came to know him as a dedicated family man and an outstanding engineer and leader. He touched the lives of many in our company and throughout the world with his engineering expertise and his leadership. Know that you will be in my prayers. Eternal rest grant to him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Bill Vavrik

Champaign, Il

Sally,Connor,Kate,Sean, We are so sorry for your Loss. Jim was a great guy and a great coach to our son. If you need anything please let us know. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you!!

Jeff & Loretta & Anthony Ruiz

salt lake city, ut

Sally, we were so shocked and saddened to read of Jim's passing. What a wonderful, smart, witty man. Our hearts ache for you and the kids. All our best, Jeff and Kristi

Jeff and Kristi Oritt

Salt Lake City, Ut

Sally and family--I met Jim around 1997 at AASHTO's 3 week management training. Our team there bonded closely, not the least due to Jim's effervescent personality and boundless energy. Since then we'd try to get together, if only for coffee or a drink, at the many AASHTO and SASHTO functions over the years. I never had a conversation with him where he didn't talk about you and the kids and how blessed he was to have you. Busy as he always was, you were never out of his heart. I am so, so sorry for your family's loss. Sandy Otto FHWA - Arkansas

Sandra Otto

Little Rock, AR

Sally & family, Toot & I share your grief, Jim was too young! We know that everyone says how sorry they are, but we just hope that you & your family can find a venue to get rid of the angry for your lost. It's the shits to be our age and experience these life changing events. You must be exhausted, please know that we have yours in our prays. Your Friends.

F Michael kibbie

Etna, Wy

Dear McMinimee Family, All my prayers. Though Jim and I haven't spoken much since High School we did manage a few exchanges through e-mail in recent years. Even though we hadn't been in close touch Jim's passing leaves an emptiness in my heart. I always enjoyed his company and know that all of you will miss him intensly. Very sorry for your loss, Mitch

Mitch Harrell

Scottsdale, Az

Dear Sally, Connor, Kate and Sean, We were very saddened to hear of Jim's untimely death. Please know that our hearts and prayers are with you all. We are sorry to not be able to give you hugs in person as we are out of town but our spirits will be with you Friday. We will all miss him. Love, Dick, Georgia, Kelly, Erin and Patrick Sullivan

Dick and Georgia Sullivan

Salt Lake City, UT

Sally, My prayers are with you. Jim changed my family's lives in more ways than we can ever count. He was my husband's closest friend in college and I spent hours learning about his integrity watching 3 on 3 basketball tournaments, watching flag football, broken noses and all, and every other sport Jim and Randy could play. Things slowed down when the kids came along but even then, Jim had a very positive influence on my daughters in sports, hunting and in life. My family was affected by his positive influence every day. I love him still and will continue to enjoy his influence in my family every day for the rest of my life. I thank God he was, and always will be, part of our lives.

Karen Russell

Salt Lake City, UT

Sally and family, Katherine and I offer our heartfelt condolences and love to you and your family. Jim will be remembered for his many contributions, both public and private, that have helped so many. The two of you have been a tremendous example of service and devotion to your family and others. David

David Broadbent

Salt Lake City, ut

McMinimee Family, I never knew Jim, but, working at UDOT, have heard countless tales of his good deeds. It seems he was not only a brilliant engineer, but a kind manager and good friend. My most sincere condolences, Leigh Sturges

Leigh Sturges

Salt Lake City, nan

Dear Sally & Family, My family and I wish to express our condolences to you on the loss of Jim. Please know that all of you are in my family's prayers. Please know that we are available to assist in any capacity should you need it. Larry, Ellen, Anne & Rachel Henkels

Larry Henkels

Salt Lake City, nan

Dear McMinimee Family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. I only met Jim briefly through work on SHRP2, but his warmth, humor, and optimism was always evident. May fond memories of him comfort you now and always. Respectfully, Laurie Butts

Laurie Butts

Boston, MA

Dear McMinimee Family, We were so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you . Murphy family

Anita Murphy

Salt Lake City, Ut

Sally and Family: All of us at Stanton Constructability Services offer our sincere sympathy to your entire family. For the McMinimee family, you should know what a great person and close friend Jim was to our small company. Jim seemed to go out of his way to help us. Jim was indeed a genuine leader in our industry and we are very, very proud of what he accomplished. Our prayers are with your family.

Gary Stanton

Salt Lake City, Ut

To the McMinimee Family, I am very sorry for your loss. I worked with Jim through the PARA Organization. You are all in my prayers. Cherie Morrell-Royce Secretary-PARA League

Cherie Morrell-Royce

Sandy, UT

Dear McMinimee Family, Jim was a great guy to work with and we at AASHTO looked forward to his presence in the office. He was always positive and always smiling. He was a great guy to have around. He loved to talk about his family...always. I am very sorry for your loss.

Marty Vitale

Washington, DC

Dear Sally, Sean and family, We are so very sad about Jim's passing and your incredible loss. Jim was in his element when he was coaching football and basketball. When he coached, you saw his passion for life. Jim coached Beans for many years. He really liked Beans and it showed. He saw Beans strengths and was able to give him the confidence to go on the field and kick butt. Jim's presence will be greatly missed . The Auer family

Aly Auer

Salt Lake city, Ut

Hey gang, just wanted you to know what a great guy your husband/dad was. I think you all know how much time we spent together chatting about the three of you kids and all your fun and crazy activities. He will be sorely missed and it really stinks when something happens to one of the "good guys" and he is taken away from all of us. Hang in there and know that hundreds of people love you all. Tom, Emilie and Bubs

Tom, Emilie,Bubs Hicks

SLC, UT

Sally and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I am now, and will be on May 18, out of town. I wish I could be there, but my thoughts are with you. Louise Knauer

Louise Knauer

Salt Lake City, Ut

My deepest condolences! I am shocked and saddened by Jim's untimely passing. He was a superb human being and a tremendous leader. His passion, forward vision and expertise will be sorely missed. I will also miss his cheery comraderie in making the world a better place. Please know that his mark is all over the country. May God comfort you in your loss.

King W Gee

Potomac, MD

Dear Sally, Conor, Kate, Sean, Friends, May the beautiful memories of our beloved, Jim, bring courage and strength to our lives through his example of loving, sharing, caring. I had the pleasure of working with Jim at UDOT thru Engineers-In-Training program from 1994-1999. Also, I would see him with his children doing service projects at St. Ambrose, serving coffee after Mass with scouts, helping with Art Auction, etc. We're going to miss his presence and we'll always have the memory of his life of service. Sincerely, Charlotte Kitterer Mates

Charlotte Mates

Moab, UT

Sally and Family: We are so saddened by your loss. You are in our prayers and thoughts. We can only imagine how shocked you must have been to receive the news. We extend our deepest sympathies. We will have a Mass said for Jim and your family at St. Ambrose. God Bless You Bill and Maryanne Murray

Bill and Maryanne Murray

Salt Lake City, Ut

Dear Sally, Way too early to lose your husband. Way too early for your children to lose their father. And way too early to lose a wonderful man who contributed to the world in such a positive fashion. May your memories give you and your loved ones some comfort and ease the pain...

Katherine Fox

Salt Lake City, UT

The Hurty family is saddened of the loss of your dad and husband. We will have fond memories of our Judge days together. Tim will always remember the fun trip to Lake Powell you took him on. When he came home he said Jim was just like one of the kids. You are all in our hearts and prayers, much love the Hurtys

Betsy Hurty

salt lake city, Ut

Sally, Connor, Kate and Sean. We are so sorry for the loss of Jim. We will miss him dearly and I had the utmost respect for Jim and always looked forward playing against his Cosgriff team. I always looked forward coaching football with him. We all lost a great person and human being and great friend. You are in our prayers. Love Mike, Nancy, Vinny and Dominic Fuoco

Mike Fuoco

Sandy, Ut

Dear Sally and family, I am hurting for all of you. Although I've never met you, I know from Jim's stories what a fun-loving family you are - and how much Jim loved you all. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Jim, and his passing has left a large void in the SHRP2 team here in Washington. I feel blessed to have been in his presence last Thursday afternoon. I hope it helps you to know that Jim was his regular cheerful self that day as he left for the airport, eager to get home. As you remember and honor Jim in the days and years to come, I hope your memories bring as many laughs as they do tears. Blessings to you all.

Liz Simpson

Washington, DC

McMinimee Family - I worked with Jim, on and off, for over 10 years as a consultant to UDOT. I always appreciated Jim's demeanor and his ability to remain focused without being overly intense. It was a loss to UDOT when he retired and a loss the transportation industry as a whole. I've never met Jim's family nor talked to Jim much about non-work issues. However, I just lost a brother to a sudden and unexpected heart attack at a similar age. I know this is a hard time for the entire family and I wish you the best.

Matt Riffkin

Midvale, Ut

Dear Sally, Connor, Kate and Sean, Susan and I want to offer our deep regret and a sincere condolence on the news of Jim's passing. We can only imagine how difficult it has been for all of you. We hope that your memories of the love and life he has shared can offer you some comfort at this sad time, and that, in time, your sadness will be replaced with the smiles and laughter that the warmth and happiness a fond memory can bring. It is in times such as these that we are reminded that the best things in life are not things at all. May God's blessings and peace be with you all. Sincerely, Bob and Susan Lollini and Family PS Sally, I liked Jim from the first time I met him as he sat on the treatment table next to me in the physical therapy clinic at Salt Lake Regional Hospital and my impression of him has never wavered. He was a great guy and I am truly sorry for your loss. Bob

Robert and Susan Lollini

Salt Lake City, Ut

I only met Jim two years ago as a professional colleague with similar interests. However within minutes I felt as if we had been freinds for life. I suspect this was not an unusual reaction to Jim's magnetic personality. I feel fortunate to have known Jim, even if for just a short time. I offer my prayers and condolences to you and your family. John

John Hillman

Wilmette, IL

Dear Sally and family, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We feel so fortunate that we were able to spend time with your family and know Jim's wonderful spirit. He will be deeply missed. The Feten Family

Mary Feten

Colorado Springs, CO

I was so sorry to hear about Jim. He was a great guy. I let Andy and Miles know tonight. I know Connor and Kate are in their thoughts.

JENNY CASSEDY

SLC, ut

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