James Wilmer Garrett

GARRETT, James W., Sr. After a brief and sudden illness, James W. Garrett, Sr. passed away on March 1, 2017. James lived a life full of love of family and friends, faith in God and the support of his church. In his quiet and unassuming way he molded lives, businesses and communities. A 4 sport athlete in high school, he attended the U of A on a basketball scholarship where he met his wife, Bonita. After the birth of their daughter, Michelle they moved to Kansas to be a pioneer in a restaurant called McDonald's. In KS they opened 16 McDonald's, three Ronald McDonald Houses, even personally guaranteeing the mortgages, operated a bank, served numerous charities and supported three Universities with scholarships, building funds (Garrett Natatorium at Washburn) and season tickets. Son, Jim Jr. was born in Topeka and the family enjoyed 29 years there going to the lake, fishing, waterskiing, flying and life to the fullest. James and Bonita returned to Tucson with their children and grandchildren to spend their final years with his family. James had 25 family years in Tucson, enjoying Christmas eve potlucks, reunions in Pinetop, golfing and walking the dogs with his wife. Jim had the generosity of spirit that only comes from very special people. All who knew him will miss him. Jim Sr. is survived by his love of 55 years, Bonita; brothers, Glenn and Dwayne; sister, Maggie; his son, Jim Jr. (Amy); daughter, Michelle G. Retzer (Michael) and three grandsons, Patrick, Garrett and Christian Duke and son-in-law, Mark. Services will be held at South Lawn Cemetery in Tucson on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers and honoring Jim's charity work, please donate to the Ronald McDonald House in Tucson at RMHCTucson.org. Arrangements by FUNERARIA DEL ANGEL SOUTH LAWN.