James Homer Tolar

James Homer Tolar, devoted husband and father of five, went to be with the Lord on Friday, January 23, 2015, after celebrating his 79th birthday on Tuesday at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. A career electrical engineer, ham radio fanatic, lifetime lover of cats, and enthusiastic scuba instructor, Jim enriched the lives of so many fortunate enough to have known him and claim him as family. He was born on January 20, 1936, to Homer and Doris Sayer Tolar in Stamford, Texas. Jim attended elementary through high school in Orange, Texas, graduating from Lutcher Stark High School in 1954. He was a cadet in the Civil Air Patrol and served in the United States Air Force. He acquired his ham radio license while still in high school and built his own transmitting equipment, continuing to develop his operational skills throughout his life. He attended the University of Texas, studying electrical engineering and ultimately receiving certification as a professional engineer. Jim was employed by several petroleum companies both in the US and overseas.

On November 11, 1977, he married Carol Wong. Jim and Carol enjoyed traveling together as well as spending time with family, especially their grandchildren, and their many friends. All who knew Jim could attest to his faith in The Lord and that his love, devotion, and care for his family was ever foremost in both thought and action. He is survived by his beloved wife Carol; his children Catarina Tolar of North Adams, Massachusetts, Cynthia Tolar Burgess of Houston, Texas, Jon Tolar of Burnet, Texas, Philip Tolar of Fulshear, Texas, and Robert Tolar of North Adams, Massachusetts; grandchildren; great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and siblings Roddy Carroll Tolar of Orange, Texas, Jan Tolar Modisette of Bullard, Texas, Kitti Tolar Homyak of Austin, Texas, Gay Tolar of Hilo, Hawaii, Bonnie Tolar Parker of Austin, Texas, and Richard Tolar of Austin, Texas. A celebration of the life of our dearest James will be held on Monday, January 26, 2015, at 2pm at the Chapel of Eternal Peace in Houston, Texas, 2454 South Dairy Ashford. The family will greet friends at the Chapel of Eternal Peace from 1pm until the time of service. In remembrance of Jim, donations can be made to the Salvation Army: 1- 800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769).