Jim Witherell, a longtime research analyst in ITD's Budget, Policy and Intergovernmental Policy section, passed away Sunday following an extended illness. He was 58. Jim worked for the state of Idaho since 1970 and joined the transportation department in February 1991.

Jim was an indispensable information resource for anyone in the department – and outside ITD. He often fielded complex questions and information requests that no one else could answer. Those requests frequently came from beyond Headquarters, such as cities, counties, legislators, the Internal Revenue Service, Idaho Tax Commission, Idaho State Police...

Longtime colleague Doug Benzon said Jim will be impossible to replace. He cared about people, was a hard worker, was well liked and respected, Benzon said. Friends and colleagues at the Idaho Transportation Department extend their condolences to Jim's family.