James "Jim" Kissee

We are sad to announce the passing of James (Jim) Kissee of Oakhurst California at the age of 77. Jim was born and raised in Somis and Camarillo California.

He and his wife Julie Etchechoury met in fifth grade and started dating in high school. They were married for 56 years. He is survived by Julie and their three children Kelly (Auddrena), Gregory (D.J.), and Jason and their eight grandsons: Jake, Jackson, Kyler, Jameson, Kobey, Brody, Weston, and Bradon; his sister-in-law Melissa Etchechoury Beasley, nieces Kirsten Beasley, Jodie Benoit, Paula Dow, and nephews Billy, Don, and Richard Winters, and Eddie Barnard. Jim and Julie raised their children in the beautiful mountain area of Oakhurst and Bass Lake since 1978.

Jim was a true outdoorsman who was a strong, hard-working man who helped many friends, family, and strangers in their time of need. He loved to hunt deer and elk, fish in the High Sierras, hike the local mountains, and travel to Kauai. He was our lumberjack who loved being in the forest cutting firewood. He was a loving father and grandfather who passed on his love of nature to his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed coaching Kelly, Greg, and Jason in Youth Athletics and Yosemite High School Basketball.

He taught his loved one’s life lessons, leading by example. Jim was a man of his word and his handshake would seal the deal. He loved spending time with his friends and family. He loved home-cooked meals and dining out, especially at Kelly and Greg's restaurants. A vodka tonic or two usually preceded his meal. Jim would always have a smile on his face while talking about hunting and getting the next “big one”. Even until his last moment he found strength from seemingly impossible-to-express love to those who mattered most.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Edith and Scotty Kissee, his three sisters; June, Kathleen, Pauline; and his nephew Trevor Beasley.

Jim you were my source of comfort, love, and companionship. We shall miss you terribly, but we give thanks that you were ours and that you will always be ours.

Service will be held at a later date in Oakhurst and Camarillo, CA.

Arrangements are entrusted to Palm Memorial Sierra Chapel in Oakhurst, CA.