Parker, CO: James D. Cover, 91, passed away on Sunday morning, September 20, 2026, in Parker, Colo., after an extended battle with cancer. He will be remembered not only for his quiet leadership, remarkable intellect, impressive memory, and many professional achievements, but also for his devout faith in God, lifelong dedication to service, and the deep love he had for family and friends throughout his life.
James was born on June 7, 1935, in the small town of New Hampton, Mo., to Wilbur and Margaret Cover. Five years later, his sister, Patsy, joined the family. He remembered being cared for by his grandparents and wandering the family farm with his dog and a broken BB gun before he began elementary school. He attended high school in New Hampton through his junior year, the school’s final year of operation, then completed his studies at nearby Bethany High School. He went on to the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri, and graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He also completed post-graduate work at both Central Michigan University (Master of Arts) and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces.
He fully believed in his responsibility to give back to his community and was active at his church and involved in volunteer activities his entire adult life. He was a paramedic with the Cunningham Volunteer Fire Department, delivered food for Fellowship in Serving Humanity (FISH), was a Stevens Minister at Eastern Hills Community Church (EHCC), served with the sheepdog team (responsible for safety and security) also at EHCC, and provided guidance as a mentor for at-risk children.
He was a life member of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association, the Association of Former Intelligence Officers, the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, the National Rifle Association, the Phoenix Society, the Senior Executives Association, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Jim was preceded in death by his father, Wilbur; mother, Margaret; and his wife of 54 years, Dee. He is survived by his son J. David (Chrissy) Cover, daughter Terry (Ric) Trujillo, sister Pat Black, and his two granddaughters Eileen and Greta Cover.
Graveside services and Burial with Military Rites will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 3 in Foster Cemetery, New Hampton, Mo. under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home, Bethany, Mo. The family will receive friends from 9:00-10:00 a.m. Saturday at Roberson Funeral Home, Bethany, Mo. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.
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