James H Burnworth

James H. Burnworth, age 86, of Hemet, formerly of La Mesa, passed away on Wednesday, January 30, 2013. James was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, July 22, 1926 to Joseph and Ethel Burnworth. Jim was a plumber for more than 40 years. He proudly served our country during WWII in the United States Navy and was stationed on the USS Charleston PG51. He was instrumental in the building of the hospital for Camp Pendleton. Jim led such an adventurous life. He and his best friend, Stan Rodefer, were the first to climb Mt. Whitney, hiking from the lowest point, Badwater, to the highest point, Mt. Whitney, in 1969. The hike took them two weeks and their names are the first two names in the sign in book on the mountain. Jim loved to camp, especially in the desert. He was such an avid fisherman that at one point in his life, he was a fishing guide in Saskatchewan, Canada. He also enjoyed the times that he spent attending Naval ship reunions. Jim was a former member of VFW Post 2422 of El Cajon and also American Legion Post 258 of Alpine. He was an active member of VFW Post 2266 in San Jacinto and American Legion Post 0848 in San Jacinto. Jim is preceded in death by his parents; son, Terry Burnworth; and his brothers, Doug, Don, Bob, and Carl Burnworth. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Sylvia; his son, David (Vicki) Burnworth; son, John (Linda) Burnworth; daughter, Nancy (Hiram) Reames; son, Patrick Burnworth; sister, Carol (Bob) Gililland; brother, Clair “Burnie” (Karen) Burnworth; and grandchildren, Kimberly (Robert), Trapper (Nicki), Stephanie, Skylar, and Shelby. A graveside service is scheduled for Friday, April 5, 2013 at 1:30 pm at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, Cabrillo Memorial Drive, San Diego, CA 92106. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in Jim’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Foundation. Jim touched many lives and will be truly missed by all those who were honored to know him and who loved him. Guests may submit on-line condolences to the family at www.mcwanefamily.com

Entrusted to the care of McWane Family Funeral Home, Hemet, CA