James A. “Jim” Sales of Parachute died Tuesday, March 18, 2003, at University Hospital in Denver. He was 31.

Jim’s death followed an extended illness related to his heart. Jim constantly fought infections and rejection of both his first and second heart transplants over the past 12 years.

Jim graduated with honors at Coronado High School in Colorado Springs, even after having a massive dual stroke created by his original heart failure at the beginning of the school year and then having the subsequent first heart transplant.

Jim was always a loving father, always keeping the interests of his children in mind at all times. Jim spent countless hours teaching and just having fun with his children.

Everyone will remember Jim for his loving nature, positive attitude about life and the way he was always helping anyone in need any way he could, any time he could, regardless of expense to him and sometimes even to the extent that it would hurt him. Jim was an inspiration to everyone whose life he touched, including those patients he met at the hospital with transplant problems of their own.

He put the welfare of others ahead of his own in his inherent unselfish manner. His unselfishness has even followed him after he is gone through his wish to donate organs as could be and as needed to further assist others in their life.

Jim enjoyed the outdoors while camping, fishing, boating, playing golf or riding ATVs with his family and friends.

Mr. Sales is survived by his wife Naomi Sales of Parachute; by his parents Ronald R. and Martha J. Sales of Parachute; by sons Cody James Sales and Conner Ray Sales; and by his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and a countless number of friends.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, at the Russey Hurlburt Cemetery in Parachute.

Callahan Edfast Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.