James Platt Van Orman

James Platt Van Orman passed away on March 4, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He died peacefully at the age of 66 in the home he had built years earlier.

Born on July 22, 1959, in Bountiful, Utah, to Wilford Smith and Laural Jane Platt Van Orman, James grew up in a loving home filled with brothers and sisters. He had a deep passion for the outdoors that remained with him throughout his life. He loved fishing, hunting, motorcycles, dirtbikes, hot rods, concerts, campfires, races, hockey, water skiing, snow skiing, cliff jumping, horseback riding, river rafting, camping, cooking, snowmobiling, and every other activity the natural world had to offer. These pursuits were more than hobbies; they defined his way of living. He generously shared his skills and enthusiasm with his four children, Riley, Willey, Karley, and Abbey, teaching them to work hard and play even harder.

James demonstrated a strong work ethic from the time he took his first job at age twelve until his last at sixty-five. Over the years he worked as a farmer, stable boy, truck driver, tree trimmer, iron worker, crane erector, bridge builder, welder, and at-home chef. Those who knew him described him as an honest, kind, humble, tender, spiritual, talented, personable, gentle giant. Above all, he cherished his family and friendships. He was a devoted father, brother, and Mpa to his children and eight grandchildren, whom he loved and adored more than life itself.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Sharon Rose and Sharolyn Rae, and brother Roy. He is survived by his siblings Mark, Clark, Jeanie, Judy, Barbara, Shirley, and Vickey, as well as his children and grandchildren.