James was born on November 30, 1923 in Eureka, Utah, to a Greek immigrant father, Angelo George Takos, and a stalwart mother, Sarah Ann Parker. James passed away peacefully in his home on March 15, 2018, surrounded by his loving family. He joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints in 1954 and served faithfully in the Salt Lake Temple for twenty-three years, enjoying every minute in that sacred service.
Dad served in World War II as a Marine Corp gunner on the battleship U.S.S. Washington, and was a proud member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). After his military service he worked for Enoch Smith and Sons until his retirement in 1983. James married his sweetheart, Sarah G. Jasperson, on June 21, 1946 in Salt Lake City, and they were later sealed in the Manti Temple on December 1, 1962. Dad was known for his love of children and every one of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren adored him. He enjoyed boating, watching sports, and his feel-good show, Friends. He especially enjoyed serving as a coach and administrator in the Ute Conference little league football program.
James was the life of the party and could often be found serving at the Rose Park Fun-O-Rama or telling stories while drinking his "medicine," Diet Dr. Pepper. Everyone he met loved him and considered him their best friend. He treasured spending Thursday nights with his buddy, Brett (a grandson). He is preceded in death by his parents; wife; eldest son, James Ervin Takos; and brother, George Walter Takos. He is survived by his sons Paul (Pam Hunt) and Mark (Shauna Glasgow); daughter Barbara (Kent Moore); brother, Donald Dix Takos; 11 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren (with 3 on the way).
Our family would wholeheartedly like to thank Summit Home Health and Hospice for their kind and loving care of our father, especially Chantelle, Chrystian and Luis.
Funeral services will be held Monday, March 19, 2018, at 12:00 noon at the Rose Park 1st Ward Chapel, 1153 West 800 North, Salt Lake City, Utah. Visitations will be held at the Rose Park 1st Ward Chapel Sunday, March 18, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and Monday from 10:30-11:45 a.m.
