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Jimmy Warfel, ladies’ man, outdoorsman, with a successful medical career as a respiratory therapist, the guy who loved to try anything once, and legend, died on May 13, 2024.
He was the oldest child born to Ruth “Skip” Marchant Werbelow. James was a go-getter from day one and loved to keep his mom on her toes. He was raised in Powell and a graduate from Powell High School. Jimmy told of the story at graduation where he and a few buddies were going to light up a celebratory cigar, and ol’ Skip came flying across the crowd and made sure that didn’t happen.
After high school, James worked in the oil patch and then joined the United States Army. He moved to Denver and worked for many years in the emergency room at University Hospital, becoming a certified cardiologist technician. James also attended the University of Wyoming, receiving his bachelor’s degree, and became a registered pulmonary function technologist. He loved to help people and especially enjoyed the kids.
Jimmy was truly a selfless individual, and it showed in his medical career. He was the guy they called when little babies were born who might not have made it except for his life-saving skills. He gave his all in saving someone’s life: “No one dies on my watch.” Jimmy always traveled with a survival pack and was prepared. He would say, “You just never know.”
Ten years ago he married the love of his life, Lisa. This all came about one day after work at the local watering hole. Jimmy decided he would plant one hell of a kiss on Lisa, and after that, she was hoodwinked into thinking he was a charming individual. They loved to camp, fish and entertain with all their friends. The door is always open at Jimmy and Lisa’s.
We are honored to have known and loved Jimmy and have such a legend in our lives. Jimmy, your life truly was legendary. Give them hell up there. We love you and can’t wait for the party when we all meet up again.
James will always be admired and loved by his two sisters, Tamara Sandberg (Erik, Berlin and Stormy) and Melanie Werbelow, his granddaughter Kaitlyn Ruzick, and his beloved wife Lisa Warfel. He joins his mother, Ruth “Skip” Marchant Werbelow, and son Tyler Ruzick, who watch over us.
Jimmy lived a wild, colorful and full of adventure life. Our time on earth is limited. Don’t try to age with grace — age with mischief, audacity and a good story to tell. Jimmy had a lot of great stories to tell and loved to sit and talk with anyone. Come share a story and a drink with all of us that loved him very much. Join us to celebrate a legend at 2 p.m. June 8 at the Red Zone in Powell.
Love you, James!
