James W. Van Scyoc

James W. Van Scyoc, 81 died on Monday, October 6, 2014. He is survived by his wife, Marge; son, Michael and wife Aurora of Colorado Springs; daughter, Shelly of Denver, grandchildren, Brian, Vanessa, Valerie, and Daniel; and many, many other relatives and friends. Jim was preceded in death by daughter Stacey. Jim was born on January 10, 1933 in Richland, IL. After he graduated from Mattoon High School in 1951, he joined the USAF and was a tail gunner on B-29's. In 1954 he completed pilot training. He ultimately joined the New Mexico Air National Guard in 1958. During his career he flew F-84, F-86, F-100, and A-7. He did a tour in Viet Nam in the late 1960's. During his career he held the position of Squadron Commander of the 188th Tactical Fighter Squadron, and spent many years as the Chief of Maintenance of the 150th Tactical Fighter Group. He ultimately retired as Colonel - holding the position as the Assistant Adjutant General for Air of the New Mexico National Guard. Jim was an avid skier, tennis player and skeet shooter. He had been President of the Tennis Club of Albuquerque, and an active member of the High Desert Sportsmen shooting club. A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 13th at 2:00 p.m. at FRENCH - Lomas. Interment will take place on Tuesday, October 14th at 12:45 p.m. at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. Memorials can be sent in his name to the Wounded Warrior Project, .