James Lanier Baushke 
August 19, 1939 - February 15, 2022
James was born in Benton Harbor, Michigan. He graduated from Benton Harbor Senior High School in 1957, went on to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from Michigan Technological University in 1961, and a Master of Science Degree from the University of Pittsburg in 1966.
James was commissioned a Second Lieutenant from Air Force ROTC in 1961 and served a 25-year career in Air Force Civil Engineering and Systems Acquisition with tours of duty in Vietnam, Korea, the Pentagon, and Germany retiring with the rank of Colonel. Among his decorations are the Bronze Star, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Republic of Korea Defense Commendation Medal. He was one of the youngest recipients of the Newman Medal awarded by the society of American Military Engineers.
After retiring from active duty, James worked for Jacob’s Engineering in Pasadena, California and the Claremont College’s Physical Plant Dept. in Claremont, California.
James, and his wife Donna, moved to Gardnerville, Nevada, in May 2000 where they joined the Saint Gall Catholic Parish. James became a Fourth Degree Knight in the local Knights of Columbus at St. Gall. He helped with numerous charitable endeavors and held several offices including Comptroller of Assembly 2777.
James served on the Douglas County Board of Commissioners from 2003 to 2008. During his tenure he represented the county on numerous State and Local Boards including the Carson Water Sub conservancy district and the Nevada Association of Counties (NACO) of which he was President in the year 2007.
He was also a member of the Douglas County Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol at Minden Airport. He had held positions of Commander, Mission Pilot, Aircrew Training Officer, and Personnel Officer. James was a Private Pilot with Instrument Rating and accumulated over 2300 hours of flying time.
James is survived by his wife Donna, Lynn Marie Weddle, Kathleen Ann Baushke, Michael James Baushke, and Christopher Saikevicz.
A celebration of life will be held at St. Gall Catholic Church on April 2, 2022, at 11 a.m.