James F. Dutton

James F. Dutton was born on August 24, 1929 to Lora and Ralph Dutton in Phoenix, Arizona. He was raised in Phoenix and graduated from Scottsdale High School in 1947. While in 4H club in elementary school, he met his future wife Bonnie Nell Treat. Jim and Bonnie were King and Queen of Homecoming their senior year in high school. They were married on December 21, 1950.

Jim graduated from the University of Arizona in Tucson with a degree in Civil Engineering. Upon graduation, he and Bonnie moved to Southern California, settling in Woodland Hills. Jim immediately found employment with The Marquardt Company in Van Nuys, California, starting his career as an engineering aide on June 4, 1952. He spent his entire professional career at Marquardt, retiring in 1991. Jim held many positions during his career, and ultimately focused on leading Marquardt's testing facilities used to develop proprietary rocket technologies, Jim’s work contributed to several historic projects including the Apollo Missions, Space Shuttle, and the current missile defense system. He was also known as a committed leader and mentor to his teams and kept in touch with many co-workers long after he retired.

Jim and Bonnie moved to Thousand Oaks in 1963, where they raised 5 children. Jim was the strong patriarch of his family, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

In retirement, Jim initially settled in Arizona, where he lived first in Prescott and then in Sun Lakes. He returned to Thousand Oaks in 2010. He enjoyed traveling, taking long walks, reading mysteries, attending Cactus League spring training games, and watching his Arizona Wildcats in football and basketball.

Jim is survived by his children, their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many friends. He will be missed for his sarcastic wit, calming presence, and making the perfect Reuben sandwich. In lieu of flowers, please order dessert or your favorite cocktail and toast to a life well lived.

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