Jim Colson

James “Jim” Albert Colson, 77, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026. Jim was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, craftsman, coach, and friend, whose life left a lasting mark on the Idaho Falls community.

Jim was born on December 17, 1948, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Fred and Alda Colson. He graduated from Idaho Falls High School and briefly attended Boise State University before deciding to return home. Jim joined the family sign business founded by his father in 1939, where his work became a familiar and lasting part of the local landscape. Many in Idaho Falls can still point out signs created by Jim and his family throughout the city.

Jim was especially known for his skill in hand-painting and gold leaf lettering, including beautifully detailed work on fire engines and ambulances for the City of Idaho Falls. Gifted with his hands, Jim could build almost anything from scratch, tackling projects with patience and quiet confidence. He also had a true green thumb and took great pride in the landscaping of his yard and the care of his garden.

For more than ten years, Jim coached Little League baseball, generously giving his time and energy to help shape the lives of young people in the community. He valued teamwork, kindness, and showing up for others–lessons he passed on both on and off the field.

One of Jim’s favorite daily rituals was visiting the North Hi-Way Café each morning, where he met with friends and neighbors. These mornings were more than coffee; they were a testament to the strong friendships Jim built over the years. He was known for treating everyone he met with compassion, respect, and genuine interest, and he always made people feel welcome and valued.

Jim is survived by his wife, Deborah Colson, to whom he was married for 25 years; his son, Michael (Sara) Colson; his grandson, Benjamin Colson; his daughter, Megan Lee Roland; and his granddaughter, India.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Bill Colson, who passed away on January 19, 2026.

Jim’s legacy lives on in the family he loved, the community he served, the signs that still stand across Idaho Falls, and the many lives he touched through his kindness, craftsmanship, and steady presence. He will be deeply missed.

Jim chose to be cremated, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.