James Merlynn Woodward

Jim played minor league baseball in his early 20's. He continued his love of baseball by coaching Little League when his boys were younger.

He moved his family from Elk Grove, California to the Laton area in 1968 to work for Arnold and Marge Gomes Dairy and Ranches. He completed his working life as a ranch foreman for Van Erickson Ranches, of Fresno, where he worked for over 33 years, as well as farming on his own.

The family would like to thank St. Agnes Home Health and the caregivers, Linda, Sharon and Ashley for their services and care of our father during these last few months.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Frank and Anna May Woodward; and his brother, Frank Woodward.

He is survived by his sister, Dorothy Duclos and her husband René Duclos of Ione, California; his sons, Paul and his wife Kathi of Fresno; Pat of Elk Grove; Mike and his wife Denise of Kingsburg; and his daughter Dodi and her husband Dana Voight of Kailua, Hawaii; his grandchildren, Brooke Phelan and her husband Ryan of Kingsburg, Jordan Woodward of Kingsburg, Jimmy Woodward of Elk Grove, Kylie and Matt Woodward of Fresno, Elijiah Voight of Kailua, Hawaii; and his great-grand daughter, Sullivan of Kingsburg. Also his surrogate family, Buddy and Roxy Lewis and family.

A Graveside Service will take place at Fresno Memorial Gardens on Monday, September 20, 2010, at 11:00 a.m.

In Lieu of flowers the family wishes that donations be sent to the American Cancer Society or the donor's favorite charity.

Arrangements under the direction of Tinkler Funeral Chapel & Crematory.