James Gorzalka

A celebration of life service for James Gorzalka, a 67-year-old Clearmont resident, who passed away suddenly at his home on September 14, 2024, will be held at a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to the James Gorzalka Memorial, a fund set up to help with the future education expenses for his grandchildren, at PO Box 176, Clearmont Wyoming 82835. Online condolences may be made at www.harnessfuneralhome.com.

James Lee Gorzalka, Jim was born on October 17th, 1956, to Alois and Frances Gorzalka in Sheridan, Wyoming. He was raised on a small ranch on Dutch Creek Road, where he attended elementary school at Dutch Creek schoolhouse and then went on to graduate high school at Sheridan High School. On February 14th, 1980, Jim married the love of his life, Dana, and they started a forty-four-year journey together. In that time, they had two children, Matthew and Jenna, and raised their nephew, Mike Fox and their special daughter Sirena Cooley.

Through those many years, Jim worked as a heavy equipment operator, starting at Big Horn Coal. As the years went on, he continued his career in Alaska, and from there he began travelling from the Aleutian chain of islands in Alaska, to California, Colorado, Arizona and Washington, continuing to operate heavy equipment for KEIWIT.

In May 2016 Jim became a “Papa” to twin granddaughters Loralei and Lyric. Jim loved being a papa and eventually decided to retire to be home with his family. In 2022, even though he retired, he continued working at Johnson County Road and Bridge.

Jim made many friends throughout his work travels. He was the best husband and most amazing father, super Papa and helpful friend.

Jim is survived by his wife Dana, son Matthew Gorzalka, daughter Jenna Gorzalka, son Mike Fox (Brandy), daughter Sirena Cooley, twin granddaughters Loralei and Lyric Gorzalka, two sisters Natalie (Kelly) Peabody and Nancy Reinke, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jeff, and his mother-in-law Peggy Kasperek.

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