U.S. Army · United States 
James Olterman
2002
James Howard Olterman served the U.S. Army for 2 years. James also served in the U.S. Army.
How He Died
Manner
Accident
Cause
Multiple traumatic injuries
What Happened
Wildlife Officer James Olterman was killed when the Cessna 185 he was piloting on a fish-stocking mission to Hunts Lake crashed in the side of Hunts Peak near Salida, Colorado.
During the flight, the plane encountered strong winds and was forced to make a crash landing. As Officer Olterman attempted to land he purposely veered to the left to absorb the impact on the pilot's side, saving the life of a fellow employee. The injured passenger had to hike down the mountain from the crash scene.
Officer Olterman served as a senior terrestrial biologist in addition to being the area's wildlife law enforcement officer.
Officer Olterman was a US Army veteran of the Vietnam War veteran had served with the Colorado Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Division for 30 years.
During the flight, the plane encountered strong winds and was forced to make a crash landing. As Officer Olterman attempted to land he purposely veered to the left to absorb the impact on the pilot's side, saving the life of a fellow employee. The injured passenger had to hike down the mountain from the crash scene.
Officer Olterman served as a senior terrestrial biologist in addition to being the area's wildlife law enforcement officer.
Officer Olterman was a US Army veteran of the Vietnam War veteran had served with the Colorado Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Division for 30 years.
Survivors
He is survived by his wife and three children.
Service Record
U.S. Army
1968 – 1970
U.S. Army
Also Served
Colorado Department of Natural Resources - Parks and Wildlife Division
Wildlife Officer
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
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Record added
August 2, 2026
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Last updated
August 2, 2026
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