James Derek Draper

James Derrick Draper of Heyburn, Idaho passed away in his sleep at home on June 8,2023 at the age of 55.

James, the middle of three children and the only boy, was born on April 19, 1968 to Susan Draper and James (Jim) Perry Draper in Burley, Idaho.  Susan and Jim later divorced leaving the poor guy always surrounded by women and even more when his aunts Dana and Jackie could visit.

In 1987, James graduated from Minico High School.  Many people will remember him from Albertsons where he worked until they closed their doors.  After Albertsons, James was employed at West Minico Junior High School where he did janitorial work until he was diagnosed with kidney disease and couldn’t work any longer and began his at home dialysis which he did for many years.

James never married or had children.  When his first niece Ashley was born, they had a special relationship.  She could sit for hours and listen to him talk about his favorite comic book characters and they would stay up late watching old classic scary movies.  He also had many, many feline friends.  He’s now able to go for long walks with his favorite feline, Clyde.  James was an avid comic book collector.  He had an impressive collection including many action figures. 

James is predeceased by his dad, Jim Draper, his aunt, Jackie Besswanger and his grandmother, Florence Besswanger and we know he is so happy to be reunited with her now.  He is survived by his mother, Susan Draper; sisters Staci Hoyt and Nicole (Julio) Luna; three nieces, Ashley Luna, Kirsten Luna and Halle Lune and his aunt, Dana Besswanger.

An interment ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 24, 2023 at the Pleasant View Cemetery in Burley.  Services are under the direction of Joel Heward Hansen Mortuary.

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