James C. Inabinet

Jim was born on June 19,1949 to Milton and Jean Inabinet in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Jim was the second of four children. Jim’s father was in the military and the family moved around a bit. Jim spent his early years in Georgia and Florida.

Jim’s parents divorced and his mother settled with the children in Sault St. Marie , Michigan where Jim completed his education. Following school Jim joined the Merchant Marines and sailed the Great Lakes delivering ore to the steel mills.

During the Vietnam War Jim joined the US Army serving in the Demilitarized Zone in Korea. Returning home to Michigan after his service Jim and two friends decided to try their luck in California and drove cross country. They enrolled in a hard hat diving school . He became a certified diver but during that time his plans changed when he met Esther “Dolly” Inabinet. They fell in love, married and had a son, Jeff. Jim served as a firefighter for the City of Long Beach as an engineer for 30 years.

Jim was a talented woodworker, stained glass artist, fisherman and golfer. He is survived by his wife, Katherine, son Jeff, daughter in law Amy and grandsons Luke and Jack. He is also survived by stepchildren Amy Isaacson and Adam Laughlin and five step grandchildren, Max, Lily, Laney, Reid and Knox. Jim’s brother Ed and sisters Jan and Carol reside in Michigan.

Jim was a humble, God fearing, strong and kind man. He led an exemplary life serving others.