James was a California native born in Los Angeles on September 10, 1937, the youngest of five children. After marrying his high school sweetheart, Eileen Murray in 1960, he served in the United States Army before becoming a Heavy Duty Equipment Engineer. He began his art career at Mt. San Antonio College in Southern California and became a renown and respected metal sculptor for the next 35 years. In 1980, James and his family moved to Truckee, California, where he opened an art gallery downtown and became a beloved friend and support to the local community. His love for the outdoors is exemplified in much of his artwork, enhanced by his boyhood dream-come-true to live in the Sierra Mountains, where he could fish, hunt, and be surrounded by God's creation. His original artwork has graced galleries and homes across the world and continues to be his legacy.

James is survived by his wife of 48 years, Eileen; three children, Chris, Elaine, and Jamie; seven grandchildren, Kailyn, Jenna, Mitchell, Cole, Zachary, Abigail, and Danielle; and his beloved, "man's best friend", Kodiak. He will forever be remembered for his immeasurable impact on the hearts and lives of his friends and family. A "Celebration of Life" memorial service will take place at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 3125 North Lake Blvd., in Tahoe City at 12:00 p.m. on August 17, 2008.

In lieu of flowers, the family request contributions be made to the Truckee Animal Shelter.