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Published June 28, 2012, 09:34 AM

James Opdahl, 32

James Eldon Opdahl, age 32, of Boulder, Colo., died June 25, suddenly at his home.

James Eldon Opdahl, age 32, of Boulder, Colo., died June 25, suddenly at his home.

He was born on Nov. 9, 1979, to Sharon Meacham and Loren Opdahl in River Falls, Wis. James graduated in 1998 from River Falls High School. He worked at Steve's Pizza Palace throughout high school and off and on in the following years.

He loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping, fishing, hiking, and rock climbing. He was always out on a new adventure, learning new things, meeting new people, and enjoying life to the fullest. He was interested in art, photography, and computer graphics. James made friends wherever he went and was very outgoing. He loved Colorado but also missed his home area and his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Michael Meacham; uncles, Eldon Magawa and Raymond Jewett; grandparents Stanley Magawa and Clover Magawa, and Elva Opdahl; step-aunt Sharon Bottolfson.

James is survived by his mother, Sharon Meacham; siblings, Laura (Corey) Buck, Stephen (Jessie Cardenas) Opdahl, and Julie (Herbert) Matanga; stepbrothers, Troy (Shelley) Meacham and Ryan Meacham; nephews, Montana, Liam, and Zachary Brandt, and Tyler Buck; step-grandparents Bernard and Wanda Meacham; and countless cousins, other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held for James at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 1, in Sharon Meacham's backyard, 503 E. Johnson St., River Falls. Sandwiches will be provided, and guests are welcome to bring a dish to share.

Cashman-Hill Funeral Home and Cremation Services, River Falls is assisting the family.

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Andrew (Maang) B.
Tallahassee, FL     12/07/2012 11:50 PM

I hitchhiked across Wisconsin with James to go to Rock Fest! He lost his job for missing work, but we had fun. He always cheered people up wherever he went. You made a difference for sure.

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Marissa P.
Hastings, MN     06/28/2012 10:15 PM

As a former classmate and roommate (many moons ago) I am very sadden by this news. James was such a great guy, always so upbeat! He knew how to make people laugh. I know we hadn't seen each other for a good 10 years, but you've left with such fond memories. You will be missed by many! RIP

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Erin S.
Minneapolis, MN     06/28/2012 2:28 PM

I went to school with James in River Falls. He was someone that would always put a smile on my face. He was funny, charming and had a passion for life and adventure. I'm happy to have known him and know he will be missed. Erin Singel (Johnston)

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