James Glen Pond

On October 12, 1984, James Pond was born in Grand Junction, Colorado, to Jim and Marcella Pond. James had two half-sisters, Stephanie Gast and Jennifer Gast. His maternal grandparents were especially excited when he was born, as he was their first grandson after having eight granddaughters.

James was a very active little boy, involved in tee-ball and Cub Scouts. He and his dad went on their first fishing trip to Alaska by themselves in July 1991. In 1992, James and his family moved to Spring Creek, Nevada, when his dad began working for Newmont Mining Co.

James attended Spring Creek Elementary, Spring Creek Middle School, and Spring Creek High School. While at Spring Creek Middle School, he was active in junior football and PAL basketball and was a member of the National Honor Society. He won the geography bee at his school and traveled to Las Vegas to compete in the state competition, where he placed second.

While attending Spring Creek High School, James excelled in both academics and sports. He was a member of the National Honor Society and participated in the Spartan football, basketball, and track teams. He received many academic honors and was named All-State in football for three years. All of his coaches had the utmost respect for his hard work and skill. During his senior year, he set a new school record in football with over 600 yards receiving. It was during high school that James formed friendships with his two best friends, Adam Wilson and Ashley Colleen, both of whom continue to be an important part of James' family today.

After graduating in 2003, James decided to attend the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), where he planned to "walk on" to the Wolfpack football team. After his first year of practice, his dedication paid off, and he was added to the Wolfpack football roster for the fall of 2004.

The lives of James' family and friends changed forever on May 10, 2004, when James died by suicide.

James loved his family, and he made our world a brighter, better place. We continue to “hold on to the love, not the loss,” and he will remain in our hearts forever.