James “Jimmy” Michael Deal U.S. Veteran

January 20, 1943 - March 21, 2021

James Michael “Jimmy” Deal, 78, passed away Sunday, March 21, 2021 at his home in Carson City after a long illness. Jim was born January 20, 1943 in Washington D.C. to Ralph Corell Deal and Mary Schmitz Deal.

After Jim’s graduation from High School, he enlisted in the United States Navy. Jim was proud to serve his country and often shared his experiences among friends and family. He was honorably discharged in Karamursel, Turkey July 16, 1965.

Jim spent a long career holding numerous positions with IBM in southern California. During his career, he met and married the love of his life, Terry Lynn Hansen. They were married August 29, 1988 in Carson City where they chose to retire in 1995.

Jim and Terry spent their retirement years traveling to the east coast to visit the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and Living History Museum as members and supporters. They also enjoyed white watering rafting on the rivers in the Sierra Nevada and entering
Chili Cook-Off’s around the country. Terry passed away December 3, 2010.

Jim is survived by brothers Peter (Karely) Deal of Los Angeles, CA, Bill (Mary Jo) Deal of Henderson, NV, sisters Mary (Don) Golad of Los Angeles, CA, Betsey Hartwigsen of Sierra Vista, AZ and Susan (George) Benavidez of Spokane, WA, and seven nephews, and five nieces. He was proceeded in death by his parents, loving wife Terry, and his brother Edward Deal.

Jim was known to frequent Bully’s and Glen Eagles in Carson City. He spent hours visiting and continually making new friends. Jim loved to read anything he could get his hand on, and as a result could speak to just about any subject with inherent knowledge and insight. At the same time, Jim was an active listener as he enjoyed many a conversation. In the end it is simply put that Jim was a man of wisdom and dignity. He was honest and loyal and cared deeply for his family. Jim was also a man that many were proud to call “friend.” He was no stranger to military veterans or wildland firefighters.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Elk’s Club in Carson City on Saturday, April 10, 11am-2pm. For those who wish to make a donation in memory of Jim, his family and close friends ask that contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Wildland Firefighter Foundation.