James Hugo Rifenbark

Known to many as Hugo, his draft number was 13, leading him to volunteer for the U.S. Army in 1970. A clerk gave Hugo the opportunity to serve as a photographer. When Jim later visited Israel, he purchased a Star of David that he wore continually as a tribute to the clerk who he believed saved his life. Hugo was exposed to Agent Orange in Vietnam, which resulted in the disability and illness that eventually led to his passing. While in the army, Hugo developed a lifelong passion for helicopters, taking his final ride on Saturday.

After returning from Vietnam, James earned his BA in English in Kansas City, MO, where Professor David Jaffe inspired his enduring love for writing poetry. He later served his country again as a Medical NCO in the National Guard until 1988.

James married Deborah (Deb) Lynn Ramsey on November 17, 1978, and together they had a daughter, Kelly Lynn. He is survived by his wife, Deborah; his daughter, Kelly; his son-in-law, Jeremy; his two grandchildren, Asher Lynn and Charlotte Ava; his mother-in-law, Jane; and many extended family members.

James loved traveling, especially to the mountains of Colorado. Prior to his marriage, he spent several months traveling across Europe and South America, always accompanied by his camera and journal.

Following his retirement as a Teller Manager from Bank of America, James connected with fellow veterans through a program focused on telling their stories through writing, forming friendships he deeply treasured. His work led to an interview with PBS, bringing him into contact with novelist Tim O’Brien and producer Ken Burns. PBS invited James to photograph the screening of Burns' Vietnam documentary at the U.S. Army War College in Missouri, a request he was very proud to fulfill. Several of his poems and photographs were published in Proud to Be: Writing by American Warriors by the Missouri Humanities Council & Southeast MO State University Press.

James’s sense of humor was deeply valued by his family and friends. His greatest joy was witnessing his daughter, Kelly, earn her Doctorate in Education, and spending time with his grandchildren, with whom he loved sharing his passion for books.

Deb would like to express her sincere gratitude to the Texas Veterans Commission in San Marcos, TX, the Veterans Health Centers in Temple and Austin, TX, and especially the staff at Silver Pines Nursing Home for their support and care for Jim over the last few years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Veterans Support Groups or the Alzheimer’s Association.