Jim loved the American west and always talked about Arizona. He was always fascinated by electrical and mechanical gadgets and had an aptitude for creating and repairing and always found time to mentor his sons as well as the neighborhood children. James Martin Kocanda (\"Jim\") of Rapid City and formerly of Illinois, was called home on January 19th, 2018. He was born in Rievesville, West Virginia on July 25th, 1931 to John and Mary Kocanda. Jim is survived by his wife Laurie, his son Martin (Norma), two grandsons Brandon and Alex and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, several brothers and sisters and two sons, Michael and Robert. Jim was a veteran of the United States Air Force and served his country proudly. His military tenure allowed visits to many places. His favorites were the UK and Germany and spent his time on base at Davis-Monthan, near Tuscon, Arizona.