James (Jim) E. Rupp

Jim grew up as the youngest of nine in Hays, Kansas and attended Benedictine college where he studied Economics and played basketball.  After graduation he went into the insurance business and became an independent agent and settled in Albuquerque with his wife, Sharon, and children in 1969. 

Sports were a lifelong passion for Jim.  As his kids were growing up, he spent many hours of his time volunteering as a baseball coach at Roadrunner little league and as a coach and President of the Albuquerque Youth Basketball League.  Once he retired at age 55, much of his time and energy went towards improving his tennis and golf game, and volunteering his time to ensure his adult tennis league had what it needed to be successful.  He was very grateful for the many friendships that he built through his participation in these activities over the years and the sheer amount of fun that was had. 

Jim didn’t want for much – material items were never important to him.  He took pride in his children and grandchildren and found great joy in their accomplishments. If someone was in need or if he knew that something would just make a loved one happy, he didn’t hesitate to offer whatever he could. He was a kind and gentle man with a playful sense of humor who worked hard to take care of his family and demonstrated through his actions the deep love he had for his wife, kids, and his large extended family. Jim's last few years of life were met with physical health issues as well as dementia related challenges which he met with very few complaints.  We, his friends and family, take great comfort knowing his ordeals are over and he can be at peace and in a better place.  He was loved and greatly respected and will be deeply missed.

 Jim is survived by his wife (Sharon), children (Mark and Lisa), several grandchildren, brother and sister, and countless nieces and nephews.