Oscar "James" Builteman

Oscar “James” Builteman died peacefully in the company of his loved ones in Norman, Oklahoma on January 1, 2018 in Norman, Oklahoma at the age of 89.

James is survived by: his wife of sixty-six years Mary Elizabeth Builteman; his sister Elizabeth Mitchell from Many, Louisiana; his son James Leroy Builteman of Saint Augustine, Florida; his daughter Rebecca Ann Bradford of Norman, Oklahoma; his grandchildren Hannah Elizabeth Bradford, Sarah Jane Spivey, and Christopher James Bradford of Norman, Oklahoma; and his granddaughter Katherine Elaine Builteman of Baltimore, Maryland. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Alexander James Builteman, of Saint Augustine, Florida.

James was born on June 4, 1928 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Oscar Christian and Bessie Builteman. He grew up in Many, Louisiana and graduated from Louisiana State University in 1951 with a Bachelor's Degree in Forestry. He married Mary Elizabeth Glaze that same year, then served actively in the U.S. Army until 1953, and in the Army Reserve until 1959.

James had a long career with International Paper Company. He and his family lived in East Texas and Arkansas during his years with IP. After retirement, he and Mary lived in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Saint Augustine, Florida, and Norman, Oklahoma, where they were able to enjoy the company of their children and grandchildren. He was involved with the AARP Tax Rite program for many of those years.

A member of the Methodist Church, James was especially proud of his “Walk to Emmaus.” He enjoyed playing bridge. An avid hunter and outdoorsman, he most loved to fish. Many times, he treated his friends, family, and church groups to a fine fish fry. He was an accomplished woodworker and built two boats.

James relished his role as father and grandfather. He lost his father at the age of eight, and his highest ambition was to be the best Dad he could. He loved to tell stories of his own growing up and his service in Germany with the Army. His family hopes to pass those stories on to a new generation.