Jim Presser, 66, of Granby, Dies July 5, 2013

Jim Presser, “Cowpa,” son of the late Sylvester and Mildred Presser, passed away on July 5, 2013 after a courageous battle with prostate cancer. He was at home, surrounded by those he loved.  Jim was a man who spent his life giving himself to others: his country, his family, his co-workers, his rodeo teammates and his many friends.  

Jim was born on September 26, 1946 in Bismarck, North Dakota.  In 1962, he moved to Las Vegas, where he spent most of his adult life.  Jim graduated from Rancho High School in 1964. Two years later, he was called to the service of his country, serving in the United States Army at Fort Baker, California, where his duties included work in the 6th Army Medical Laboratory. Upon completion of his service, Jim returned to Las Vegas and joined the Southwest Gas Corporation. He became one of the company’s longest tenured employees, retiring in 2006 after 37 years. His coworkers universally remember him as a disciplined, compassionate manager. 

Jim split time in his retirement years between Las Vegas and Granby, Connecticut. He focused on his grandkids, attending their activities and teaching them lessons that ranged from how to install a ceiling fan to the proper way to throw a lasso.  

Jim is survived by LuAn Presser, his wife of 43 years, his brother Doug Presser, his sister Pam Donovan, his daughters Kristal Fiorentino and Kerri Cajthaml, his sons in law Mark Fiorentino and Brent Cajthaml, his grandson Gage Fiorentino and his granddaughters Kadyn Cajthaml, Ellie Fiorentino and Macie Cajthaml.  

We will forever cherish him as a man whose love, kindness and selflessness knew no bounds.  

Donations in Jim’s memory can be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.