Jim married the love of his life, Kaye, in September 1956. He graduated from Purdue University in 1959 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering after serving in the United States Navy as an Air Traffic Controlman. He valued education, experience, and common sense and had a work ethic that never stopped. Along with his wife and family, he was a long-time member of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, and other community organizations. Most notably, he was a founding member of the Sugar Land Exchange Club where he continues to be honored by a memorial fellowship in his name. He also loved his multi-denomination men’s group that gathered at Sugar Land Methodist Church and talked about learning from other’s faith and the often-lively discussions.
Jim worked in the oil industry as an engineer and became a Certified Professional Engineer in 1970. When the oil field position ran its course, Jim joined the ranks of real estate agent and became the custom home sales manager in the Sweetwater and Riverstone areas in Sugar Land. He was active in the Real Estate groups in the area, including being elected president of the Ft. Bend Board of Realtors and the first and only male president of the Ft. Bend Women’s Council of Realtors! He was also the recipient of the coveted PRISM Award from the Greater Houston Builders Association. In retirement, he remained an active consultant, volunteer and amazing husband, dad, papa, great-papa, along with hitting a golf ball now and again.
He is preceded in death by a great-granddaughter and his sister, Betty. Jim is survived by his wife of 66 years, 3 children, 8 grandchildren, and 5+ great-grandchildren with more to come.
In his final 6 months of life, his family was assisted by Hospice Plus of Sugar Land as we negotiated the transition from this home to his heavenly home. He had many conversations with God and was never embarrassed to share his faith.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 7 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home, 12555 South Kirkwood Road in Stafford.
Immediately following, all are invited to gather with the family and share remembrances of James during a reception in the event room.
In memory of Jim, donations can be made in Jim’s honor to Sugar Land Exchange Club. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7M7X3KV5SM7DY
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with his family at www.earthmansouthwest.com.
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