Lawrence (Jim) Diedrich

Jim DiedrichLawrence (Jim) Diedrich passed away suddenly on June 6, 2006 at his home. Jim was born June 6, 1931 in Billings, MT to Edward R. and Beatrice Diedrich. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Viola and Dolores; and a brother Edward.

Jim attended Fratt School, then moved to San Jose, California with his parents, later returning to Billings. He joined the Army and went to South Korea from 1952-1954. Because of his dedication to our country, he received numerous awards and medals and was honorably discharged from both the California and Montana Army National Guards as well as the Army as a Staff Sergeant. He worked at various tire companies in Billings for many years. He also owned and operated Jim's Janitorial Services, retiring in 2001 after 27 years. Jim was better known as "Janitor Jim" ans was a faithful friend of Bill W. for 24 ½ years. Jim was also a member of Sports Medicine at St. Vincent Hospital.

Jim met Aletha (Jane) Laird in 1984 and they were married in Phoenix, AZ on September 27, 1986.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jane of Billings; son, Larry Diedrich of Billings; daughters, Pamela Diedrich of Missoula and Kim Wombolt of Laurel; and son Daniel Diedrich of Albany, NY; seven grandchildren; three great grandchildren, and two sisters. He also left behind his favorite companion and friend, his dog, Winston.

Jim was an inventor and has made life easier for many people with his inventions. He also enjoyed collecting model antique cars and stayed active with projects around his house and yard. Jim loved to eat at J.B.'s Restaurant and talk to his many friends.

Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 A.M., on Monday, June 12, at Little Flower Catholic Church. Rite of Committal will follow at Mountview Cemetery. A luncheon will be served at the church following the burial. The casket is open for visitation at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary.

Memorials may be made to Little Flower Catholic Church, 209 S. 35th, Billings, MT, 59101.