James, “Jimmy” or “Jim Bob” was born on June 21st, 1943 in Detroit, Michigan. He was raised by his parents Geneta and Harry Dietrich, alongside his older brother, Robert “Bob”. At the age of 4 James and his family moved to San Diego, California where he went on to graduate from San Diego High School. He later attended college at Grossmont Community where he was on the debate team and briefly attended San Diego State University. Throughout this childhood and teen years, James developed lifelong friendships with Henry, Rod, Terry, Ralph, and Steve.
On January 5, 1963, James married his high school sweetheart, Joan. They were married for 54 years prior to her passing in 2017. They spent much of their teen years going to dances and social clubs, and they later went on to have three sons, Mark, David, and Eric. While raising their sons, James enjoyed spending time with family, camping, coaching little league, and going to Ocean Beach, Tower 4. Jim and Joan also enjoyed taking vacations to places like Kauai, the Kern River, New Orleans, and Ireland.
Jim Bob was always close with his family, including Joan’s 6 younger siblings. He developed a close relationship with Steve, Donna, Dan, Vicky and Shauna, and throughout the years treated them and their children as if they were his own siblings.
James chose a career with baking, Convair and Boeing. He most enjoyed working at Convair, where he was responsible for expediting orders. He also enjoyed working at the bakery, where he would make bread and donuts.
Later in life, James welcomed 5 granddaughters, Leanne, Alexis, Jamie, Katie, and Hannah. He then welcomed 4 great-grandchildren, Mya, Mylee, Jackson, and his namesake James. He currently has a fifth great-grandchild on the way. James loved spending time with his grandchildren at Torrey Pines beach, taking naps in his bed, and going to the movies.
Jim bob had a one-of-a-kind infectious laugh that filled the room. His laugh is one that will forever be engrained into the heads of those that loved him. He loved reading the comics, watching cartoons, sci-fi, and “B” rated movies. He also enjoyed snacking on cookies, crackers, candies, an ice-cold Pepsi, and Joan’s home cooking.
James passed away peacefully on the evening of his 80th birthday. We’d like to think that he just wanted to spend his special day with Joan, whom he loved and missed dearly.
