James Edward Dodge

James was born to George and Georgia Dodge in Pasadena, CA on April 22, 1929. He was raised alongside his sister, Frances, and his brother, John. Growing up during the Great Depression was difficult, but he found joys in 10 cent matinee movies and listening to The Lone Ranger on the radio.

Shortly after graduating from high school, he was drafted into the Army, where he served for 6 years. During his time in the Army, he trained to become a chef, and was sent to Korea to support the war effort.

Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, he returned to Southern California where he married and had three children, Jim, Vicki, and David. Though he separated after 6 years of marriage, Jim remained a loving and dedicated father. During this time, James also started working at Ronson Hydraulics as a test engineer and would ultimately retire after 40 years.

In 1987 James married Yawalux, and together they raise her daughter Pamela and adopted Sarah. During their years together, they enjoyed traveling to Hawaii, Thailand, and going on cruises in various parts of the world. He enjoyed traveling, annual trips to Laughlin, and boating with his son in San Diego. James and Yawalux remained married for 31 years until her death in September 2018.

James leaves behind his son Jim, 2 daughters, and 6 grandchildren.