Swimming lost a good friend

This was posted on the Missouri Valley LSC website on May 13, 2010:

It is with our deep regret and sorrow to announce that Jim Devine, past General Chair and Sanctions Chair for Missouri Valley Swimming, unexpectedly passed away on Wednesday, May 12th, at the young age of 62. Jim was also an associate dean for academic affairs and longtime professor at the University of Missouri’s School of Law. As an ardent supporter and contributor to the sport of competitive swimming within the Missouri Valley LSC, and a life-time member of USA Swimming, Jim volunteered countless hours towards leading and improving our LSC, generously serving as a meet official for many meets, expanding the use of the MVS website, and contributing his knowledge of sports law in the furtherance of our sport. Jim also served on the National Board of Review for USA Swimming and the Counselors Committee. He ultimately received the Lifetime Membership Award from USA Swimming and the ConocoPhillips Service Award. Jim's leadership, contributions and love of our sport will be greatly missed. Jim is survived by his wife, Sharon; his three sons, Zach (Head Coach of the Lawrence Aquahawks), Josh and Noah; and the lasting impression he left on his law students and the entire swimming community. On behalf of the athletes, non-athletes, and parents within Missouri Valley, our thoughts and prayers are with Jim’s family and the MVS swimming community for such a huge loss to all.

Jim gave a lot to the sport of swimming and has earned the friendship and respect of a lot of good people. He will be missed.