Jimmie W Inman

MARCH 21, 1926 ~ NOVEMBER 20, 2013

Jim began the journey of life in Webb City, Arkansas, on March 21st, 1926. He was the first born son, of Loyd and Connie Inman. He was soon joined by three brothers, Glen, Harold and Ronnie. In his mid-teens the family moved to California. After leaving High School, he became a Refrigerator car ice packer in Salinas, California.

In September 1946 he and a buddy drove their motorcycles to Camp Robinson Arkansas to enlist, with the belief that enlisting in Arkansas they would be stationed in California, but were sent to Fort Knox, Kentucky for basic training. Trained as a chauffeur 345, he drove command reconnaissance truck for the Regimental Headquarters, 19th Infantry Camp Chickamauga Japan. Honorably Discharged July 16th 1947, with WWII Victory Medal and Army of Occupational Medal Japan, also received a letter of thanks, signed by President Harry Truman.

Upon his return from military duty, he met a beautiful young woman, named Maxine Stout. The two dated and eventually married the day after she graduated high school, a month shy of her 18th birthday; June 6th, 1948. The two worked in the lettuce sheds as young newlyweds, with family and friends; he also worked as a service station attendant.

In the spring of 1951 he welcomed his son David Wayne, followed by daughter Kerry Lynn in the fall of 1954. They enjoyed spending time with family and friends on Sundays. He began to enjoy church outings and began attending the Church of Christ. Jim spent many hours with his son coaching little league. During these years he worked as a Milk Man for Golden State, he was a meter reader for the Gas Company.

In the early 1960’s he and his wife were presented with an opportunity to own and operate an 88cent Store. Thus began his family’s new adventures in the East Bay. In the early 60’s the family lived in Alameda and Oakland while operating their business on East 14th Street in Oakland. After the relocation the family joined the East Oakland Church of Christ, where he was very involved in the activities and became a Deacon of the Church.

During this time the family purchased a ski boat, small vacation trailer and camp site at Lake Berrysessa. Many great Saturdays were spent with Jim fishing, and his children and the other teenagers from church waterskiing the day away.

1969, brought Jim pain and sorrow, his beloved father Loyd Inman passed away, but also joy as his son David graduated from High School.

In 1972 his baby girl Kerry graduated from Skyline High School. And he and Maxine moved to their dream home in Hayward with a beautiful yard and deck for family gatherings and began the much loved tradition BBQ-ing and homemade ice cream.

A new chapter began in 1974 when he became a Grandad for the first time, Paul David arrived in August. He was over the moon and spent as much time with his new grandson as possible. Again in January of 1978 he again he claimed the title or Grandad this time to a brown eyed girl named Kristine Michelle.

In late 1978 due to economic circumstances they were forced to close his business and for the first time in his whole life he was unemployed. But it didn’t stay what way for long he went to work for a steel company, then to U-Haul as a manager. In 1980 he welcomed his second granddaughter Dawn Michelle. When better opportunity presented itself he chose to go to work for Chevron USA, where he worked for 11.5 years before he retired with perfect attendance, no sick leave.

During those years at Chevron USA, he welcomed 2 more Grandsons, D.J. in 1984 and Tyler in 1992.

On June 6,1988 he and Maxine celebrated 40 years of Marriage, for a gift they were given a trip to the New England States, he wasn’t much of a traveler, but had always said he would like to see that part of the country.

After retirement he and Maxine purchased a tent-trailer and boat to renew the family’s love of the outdoors. Many sunny summer days were spent at the Modesto Reservoir. He was proud to see a new generation enjoying the lake.

1996, again brought Jim pain and sorrow as his beloved mother Connie Inman passed away.

In 1998 he welcomed the first of is 7 great grandchildren Hunter. Twins Austin & Taylor followed. Twins Abby and Emmy joined them a few years later. And finally Drew and Emma.

In 2001 he wore a Tuxedo for the 3rd time saying he only did that for special women he loved who asked very nicely, Kerry, Michelle & Krissy.

Throughout the 2000’s he worked as a handyman/guy ”Friday”. All the while he and Maxine saw their children and grandchildren move away. In 2009 they decided to make a move as well, and became citizens of Redding, Cailfornia.

Jim struggled more and more each day with his Dementia & CHF. But never lost his amazing zest for life. In 2012 he recovered after a serious fall the put him in the hospital and rehab (where he tried to stage and escape).

In July of 2013 he celebrated his final Father’s Day, with a homemade banana cream pie.

On November 20th 2013 after another fall he joined his parents and siblings, His beloved wife Maxine would join him 10 days later on November 30th 2013.

Beloved Husband, Father, Grandad & Great-Grandad

Jim W. Inman March 21st, 1926-November 20th, 2013