James Russell Wanoreck

On November 6 , 2022, James Russell Wanoreck passed peacefully into the Lord’s hands. Born on November 7, 1947 to Laurine Wanoreck and Barbara Havlak Wanoreck, James was always surrounded by loving family and friends.

Growing up in Ballinger, James served as an altar boy in his church and was in the Boy Scouts where he earned his rank of Eagle Scout. He was always so proud of that accomplishment. In high school, James played football for the Ballinger Bearcats where he made lifelong friends.

After graduation from high school he decided to continue his education at Angelo State University. After four years he graduated with his BA in Business and was promptly drafted into the U.S. Army. When he finished basic training he was shipped off to Vietnam where he served in the infantry. James never talked much about that time in his life. He had seen and experienced more than anyone should ever have to so he chose to put it away in a corner of his mind. But he was always a proud Veteran.

When He returned to the States, he went to work for George Crownover at Angelo Truck and Tractor.. There he became a very good parts man and met so many people.

In 1972 he met his life partner, La Donna Coleman on a blind date. She was not impressed but he was persistent. On June 1,1973 they were married. In 1976 they were blessed with their first son, Brad and in 1978 a second son arrived, Matt. These two boys were the joy of his life. He spent years teaching them to love the outdoors. They were his “Ranch Foremen” and he came to respect the men they would become.

In 1979, James and Billie Briley hooked up as Partners and opened B&W Trailer. They realized their dream, after several years, building the business into the success it was. That partnership lasted for 40 years until James decided to retire.

James loved being busy and spent any free time he had at his place in Dove Creek or at the ranch in Bronte. He had a passion for NASCAR! He visited at least 15 tracks around the country just to watch those cars go round and round. He had his race friends who went with him and there was never a better group of guys. They found trouble wherever they went, but thankfully, no bail money was needed!

The blessings in his life grew as the boys married and had families of their own. This is when he found his true joy in life. Those grandchildren were the largest jewels in his crown.

James loved God, deeply. He prayed every day for people in need whether he knew them or not. He had a rough exterior, but a huge heart and a gentle soul.

Thank you to everyone who passed through his life and brought laughter, adventure, challenges and wisdom.

James was preceded in death by his parents, and brother-in-law, Paul Huff. He is survived by his wife La Donna, sons Brad (Wendi) Matt (Nicki), four grandchildren, Ryan, Claire, Kate and Zach. His brother Bob Wanoreck (Jan) and their two daughters Amanda and Chandra. Sister-in-law Phyllis Huff and her children, Toby, Chelsea and Katy. And several great nieces and nephews along with the abundant number of cousins that he grew up with.

Special thanks to the Shannon staff in 5 South who took such good care of him, Hospice of San Angelo who guided us through this journey and Comfort Keepers caretaker Rebecca and Crystal who held our hands through his transition.

Graveside services will be Saturday, November 12th at 2:00 at Lawnhaven Cemetery. Arrangements are being made by Harpers Funeral Home.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his honor, to Meals for the Elderly, or a favorite charity.