Mr. James Sharpe

Born in Eureka, CA on December 27, 1925 the only child of James and Lena Sharpe. Died October 12, 2010 in Eureka. Dad is survived by children: Kathy Sharpe, Mad River; Greg Sharpe, San Diego; Nancy (Chris) La Mont, Eureka; Carol (Bob) Stewart, McKinleyville; and Gary Sharpe, Eureka. Grandson: Christopher La Mont and Garison Sharpe. Granddaughters: Jeannette La Mont (Dave Peterson), Sara (Rex) Urbani, Allison La Mont, and DeJa Anderson. Great Granddaughters: Kylee and Katelyn Peterson. Also cousins, a brother and sister-in-law, and distant relatives. Dad was predeceased by his parents, James and Lena Sharpe; in 1976 his wife Alta B. Sharpe; and several brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws. Dad was proud of the fact that he was born and raised in Eureka and lived most of his life on West Avenue. During his childhood Dad spent a lot of time at the grocery store owned by his father at Myrtle and West and enjoying the river at Ft. Seward. As a young man Dad ran the elevator in the Carson Mansion. Following graduation from Eureka High School Dad served in the US Army, spending time in the Philippines. Dad was a cook while in the Army, which always amazed his family- he seemed to have retired his cooking skills upon returning stateside. Dad always attributed his hair loss and dislike of rice to his time in the service. As a young man, dad would ride the ferry to Fairhaven to pick up his favorite date, Alta. They married in 1951. Dad attended the Eureka Business College, was employed with Simpson Lumber Co. in the Personnel Dept., and later worked at Warehauser- he worked in the lumber industry about 20 years. For the remainder of his life Dad was a landlord of residential rental units, he never felt a need to retire. During our school years Dad enjoyed weekly picnics or camp trips at Williams Grove; helping in many capacities for Boy Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, and PTA; American Legion activities; and was active in the Congregational Church ushering, hosting at the Seamen's center, and with the Men's Club. He also enjoyed attending 49'r, Giants, and East/West Shriner's games in the Bay Area. Following our mother's death Dad was lucky to have several lady friends provided companionship: dancing, bird watching, community activities, dining out, and participation at Humboldt Unitarian Fellowship. Dad could often be found 'puttering' in the yard, watching sports, and visiting with friends that stopped by. Dad's elder years were difficult due to dementia and a compulsive disorder that prevented involvement in family or community events. There were transitional ups and downs, but in the last six months Dad had a new lease on life after he moved to Frye's Care Home where he was able to enjoy the companionship of others, music, and a changed lifestyle. The services of Hospice were also a great help in Dad's care. A Graveside Memorial will be: Thursday, Oct. 21, 2010 at 11a.m. at Myrtle Grove Cemetery. Memorial donation may be made to Hospice, American Cancer Society , or your favorite charity. Arrangements are under the direction of Pierce Mortuary Chapel, Eureka, CA 707-442-3751, www.piercemortuarychapels.com.

Published in Eureka Times-Standard from October 19 to October 21, 2010