James Smith Eicher

James Smith “Jim” Eicher, age 85, left his earthly tent and entered through the gates of Heaven on Friday, March 11, 2016, with family members at his side. He was an extraordinary man who was faithful to his God, his family and his country. He now resides forevermore in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

Jim was born on October 20, 1930, in Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania, the youngest of three children to Anne and Russell Eicher. Jim’s father died when he was only 12 years old, and his mother raised the family alone while working as a nurse. Jim learned from his mother a lifetime lesson that hard work and honest living was required for success. Jim was introduced as a young boy to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ by retired missionaries who lived across the street from his home. While playing and earning letters in football, basketball and baseball, he graduated with academic honors from Scottdale High School in 1948. Jim was acknowledged by his peers and teachers as being a hard worker, outgoing, quick-witted and kind.

After graduation, Jim attended Georgia Tech before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. During basic training Jim received top rankings in many areas and was recognized for exceptional marksmanship with the M1 Garand rifle. Jim was also recognized for his problem solving skills and attention to detail. Jim was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and given the responsibility and honor of leading Marines into combat during the Korean War. Jim was a proud member of the 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, and a graduate of the thirty-third class of the 1st Marine Division Non-Commissioned Officers School. On March 23, 1953, Jim was struck by enemy mortar rounds in Korea. Jim spent three months on a hospital ship recovering before rejoining his combat platoon. Jim was awarded a Purple Heart and later received an Honorable Discharge. The only item Jim truly cherished and shared with his children, which reflected his time of active service, was a small bible he possessed and brought back with him after his discharge. Jim’s favorite passage was Psalm 23, and he often spoke of how it sustained him throughout his life.

Jim returned to his hometown of Scottdale and in 1960 married Helen Dayoob, the younger sister of Jim’s high school friend and team mate. Jim was very close to Helen’s family growing up, but little did he know that one day he would also be a part of the Dayoob family. Jim often spoke about the Dayoob family with great admiration and respect. Jim and Helen moved to California in 1963 and put down roots while raising their family in the San Fernando Valley. Jim worked in the retail grocery industry for 31 years and retired in 1994 after successfully managing grocery stores throughout Los Angeles for both Safeway and Hughes Markets. Jim was recognized by co-workers and customers for his work ethic and genuine kindness to everyone he encountered.

Jim is survived by his wife, Helen, and their three children and spouses, Kim Zager (Scott), Jim Jr. (Sandy), and Tom (Kathy). Jim had eight grandchildren who loved to spend time with him during family outings, birthdays and holidays.

Jim was a lifetime fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and enjoyed watching football with family and friends. Countless weekends were spent either celebrating Steeler victories or breaking down Steeler losses. He took great joy knowing that he had successfully passed on the Eicher-Steeler relationship to the next generation. Although a few of his grandchildren later joined the ranks of fans for other football teams, he lovingly supported them nonetheless, while gently encouraging them to consider the error of their ways.

Jim leaves a legacy of character and faith for his children and grandchildren to follow. Jim’s sense of humor and joyful spirit will be missed by all who knew and loved him. The family is strengthened and comforted in the assurance that he is now in Heaven.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Scott Zager and the staff at St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital for the medical care provided. Jim often told family and friends how blessed he was to be Dr. Zager’s patient. Moreover, the ICU nursing staff members that cared for Jim were exceptionally compassionate and professional.

A memorial service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 30, at Living Oaks Church, Newbury Park, California. Relatives and friends are welcome at the service and the reception immediately following. Burial held in private at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks in Westlake Village.