James Russell “Jim” Vitale, 77, of Greeley, formerly of Johns town, passed away September 5, 2024, at the Northern Colorado Long Term Acute Rehab in Johnstown after suffering from a fall.

He was born May 24, 1947, in Washington, D.C., to Nicholas Augustus and Alyce Elizabeth (Comrie) Vitale and grew up in northern Virginia.

Jim graduated from Osbourn High School in Manassas, Virginia, in 1965 and married Lynda Louise Hatcher in 1965, eloping to North Carolina and sharing nearly 59 years together.

He was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War before receiving his Honorable Discharge and 30 percent disability.

They moved to Colorado in 1968. He attended Colorado State University where he received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He worked for the federal government in the Department of Health and Human Services, became Controller at CSU and then joined KPMG as a consultant auditor, the Office of the Inspector General, and in 1998 he started his own business, Jim Vitale & Associates.

Jim loved to ride his motorcycle, and they enjoyed camping and RVing. He loved to attend and watch NASCAR races.

Jim was very patriotic and enjoyed time with his family. In 2010, his family was fortunate to visit the military monuments in D.C.

He was an active member of the Johnstown United Methodist Church where he was currently serving as the treasurer and was also very active in their HOA when they lived in Johnstown.

Survivors include his wife, Lynda; their daughter, Vanessa (Michael) Genau; and two grandchildren, Prescot and Michalyn Genau; as well as his sister, Mary Propst; nieces; nephews; and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, James, Jr.; a very special great aunt, Ariel Moore; and a niece, Nikki.

Jim’s Life Celebration will take place at 11 a.m. September 21 at the Johnstown United Methodist Church with a reception following. In honor of Jim’s patriotism, please wear red, white and blue. Memorial gifts may be made to “Johnstown UMC” in care of Adamson, 2000 47th Ave., Greeley, CO 80634. Condolences may be shared at AdamsonCares. com.