James “Jim” Edwin Wilson, 73, formerly of Ranchester, Wyoming, passed away peacefully in Buffalo, Wyoming after a lengthy battle with multiple sclerosis and cancer.

Jim was born and raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 15 years as a hospital corpsman. While stationed at a MEPS station in El Paso, Texas, he met the love of his life, OraFay. The two married in 1981 and shared many wonderful years together.

Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Jim worked for the Bureau of Reclamation at Yellowtail Dam in Fort Smith, Montana. Over the years, he built a diverse career, running his own construction company, working on ranches, and later serving veterans at the Sheridan VA. His career was cut short when he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

Jim lived in Ranchester with his family until OraFay passed away in 2023. He then moved to the Veterans Home of Wyoming in Buffalo, where he received the best care. The family is forever grateful to the incredible team of nurses and CNAs who cared for him with such kindness and respect.

Jim loved the mountains and the outdoors. Whether hunting, working with his hands, or simply taking in the beauty around him, he found peace in nature.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Pat, and his beloved wife, OraFay. Jim is survived by his children Amy Jost, Jennifer Wilson, Brian Wilson, and Alaina Bergstrom (Wilson), and their spouses; as well as his grandchildren Sheldon, Shane, Remington, Amelia, Daniel, and Ace.

To Honor James Edwin Wilson, Military Honors will be held on Monday, Memorial Day, May 25, 2026, at the Champion Kane Funeral Home Event.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jim’s honor to the National MS Society or the Welch Cancer Center.

Champion Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.

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