Julie Ham

Julie Ham was born in Detroit, Michigan on November 13, 1923. The youngest daughter of Serbian immigrants Peter and Drena Petljanski, the family moved to California when she was a young girl and settled in San Pedro. After she graduated from San Pedro High School in the summer of 1941, the entire world soon changed forever with the start of World War II.

She married James Davis and gave birth to twins, Jim Davis and Joyce (Bernard) Davis. Soon after the war ended, she divorced Mr. Davis and went to work for the Los Angeles Police Department as a Clerk/Typist. Always known for her lightening fast typing abilities and accuracy, she was a favorite with the officers because she would get their work done quickly and correctly.

She met an officer by the name of Donald Ham and they wed on New Years Day 1949. They built a home on Cabrillo Avenue in San Pedro and gave birth to their son Don in July of 1951. Another home was built on 9th Street and after the birth of their daughter, Pamela in 1964, a larger home was built next door to accommodate the growing family. The homes were known for their uniqueness, style and beauty.

Julie left the police department and became a stay-at-home mom. As her children grew, she began work with the Los Angeles Superior Court as a Court Transcriber. Again, known for her speed and accuracy, she was a favorite with the Court Reporters and Judges. She worked on such notable cases as the Sirhan Sirhan Arraignment, as well as the Charles Manson and Patty Hurst trials. Julie was always sure to treat everyone from the custodial staff to the Judges with the same kindness and respect. She left with Superior Court in the early 1990’s to again work from home. She retired in 2004.

She idolized Marilyn Monroe and loved to dance. She really enjoyed shopping and prided herself on always getting the best deal possible. She was the queen of coupons at the grocery store. She was a proud, loving and caring friend and mom to her four children. She will be missed terribly by them as well as her six grandchildren.

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