James Lu

Helping people made James happy. That’s the way James came into this world, helping his mother and siblings cope emotionally and physically with his father’s long absences while serving in the Air Force. And that’s the way James left this world, as an Angel on his way to tutor little kids in music and piano at Isla Vista Elementary School, as an UC Santa Barbara college volunteer. On that Friday afternoon, God took him to Heaven.

James Lu was born at Offutt Air Force Base, Omaha, Nebraska on April 6, 1999 as the eldest son. James had a “Golden Heart” and lived a pure life. He was extremely poised yet simple; quiet yet confident; and intelligent yet practical loving son and brother. He loved his friends, music, sports, animals, and outdoor adventures. And he loved to volunteer and give, insisting on being an organ donor and planning future relief efforts. One of his mom’s fondest memory was when James was almost 2-years old and insisted on helping her shovel snow taller than him, clinging to her side, to clear the driveway during the harsh Nebraskan winters while his dad was away… mommy’s little Angel.

Having to grow up early to fill a void left by his father while on military duty, he unselfishly and lovingly cared for his little sister and brother. As the “father-figure” starting at a tender young age of 4, there was little he did for himself and everything for others. He taught both his siblings how to ride a bike, swim, play piano, snowboarding, baseball, and so much more for the first time. He carried baby Jonathan like a loving father everywhere. He helped with school work, baseball, and cared for them emotionally. His sister still remembers when walking home in the middle of a rain storm, James picked her up and carried her across a big pool of water because she was too scared. James was and still is the “goto” person for both siblings physically and emotionally. He is their idol and role model.

As for simplicity and what James cherished, his favorite quote from Sir Winston Churchill summed him up, “All great things are simple, and many can be expressed in single words: freedom, justice, honor, duty, mercy, hope.” In short, James loved unselfishly and placed all above himself.

James will be dearly missed by his loving family and friends. Rest now James and may Heaven bring you joy and happiness. Love you forever.