PIERRE, SD – Anyone who knew Jim Forney knew he had a zest for life, living it to the fullest. And, in his words, “I’ve had a great life.”

Jim was born August 5, 1939, in Griffith, Indiana, the third child of “Fritz” and Marjorie Forney. He departed this life on “Leap Day” February 29, 2024, lovingly surrounded by his family.

In 1945 his family moved from Indiana to South Dakota where he resided until his death.

Jim graduated from Pierre High School in 1957 where he lettered in football, basketball, and track. In 1962 he earned a BA degree from the University of South Dakota. While at USD, he was a member of Beta Theta Phi fraternity, a charter member of the rodeo club active in bareback and bull riding, and ran in two conference championship track teams.

Jim secured his private and commercial pilots licenses in 1963. He assisted ROTC students in flight training and flew numerous charter flights.

While visiting friends at USD, Jim met his future wife, Shari Hanselman. They were married in West Bend, Iowa, on June 11, 1966. Their son, John Forney, was born in 1967. Their 57-year marriage was blessed with family, family gatherings, the company of friends, and travels throughout the world and the United States.

In Pierre Jim owned Oahe Adjustment Services and later established Forney Insurance and Real Estate. In the 80’s he worked in the Commodity Futures Trading business; in 1988 he introduced Dakota Futures with offices in Pierre, Presho, and Winner.

Working with horses was Jim’s passion. He raised and trained horses and started playing polo at age 12. He played polo in several states and Canada, becoming an accomplished nationally rated player. Owning and training Quarter and Thoroughbred racing horses followed the days of polo playing.

Loving the outdoors, Jim had two more passions, golfing and hunting. Over the years Jim enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow golfers and special golf trips. Fall welcomed hunting. Whether in South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado, or Canada, Jim’s friends and family enjoyed the pursuit of game.

But none of his passions were more important to him than being with his family, especially his grandchildren, Peyton and Connor, and his Irish Terrier, Rory.

Jim is survived by his wife Shari, son John, daughter-in-law Heather, granddaughter Peyton and friend Micah, grandson Connor and friend Katy.

His parents Marjorie and “Fritz” Forney, sister, Janet Hamill, mother and father-in-law Retta and Alvin Hanselman and brother-in-law Wayne Hanselman preceded him in death.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 9, 2024, at TKO’s, 2003 East Wells Avenue. Food and beverages will be provided.

A private family service and burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be used to honor Jim’s favorite causes. They may be mailed to: 3108 North Frontier Road, Fort Pierre, S.D. 57532.

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