James Darr Jr.

Born in Illinois, to Mildred and James, he was the eldest of two children and was a caring and thoughtful son and brother. He grew up during the Depression, becoming a born salesman early in life to help support his family.

He enlisted in the Us Navy in 1942 as Seaman 1st class, attended University of Colorado and graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a BS degree in Electronic Engineering in 1945.

His Navy career spanned twenty-one year with service on several destroyers during the Korean War, as a member of the Joint Special Weapons Publication Board, Squadron Engineer, and finishing service as a Commander and Executive Officer, US Fleet Anti-Air Warfare Training Center, San Diego, 1964.

After he retired from the Navy, he stayed in San Diego and became a successful real estate broker specializing in investment property and teaching complicated exchange transactions throughout California. He was a recognized professional with CCIM designation and was proud to share his knowledge and expertise with other commercial brokers.

Jim married the love of his life, Bertie, in 1973, and became a loving and proud parent to her three adult children; Mark, Lorre, and Gene. He cherished his family and served as a mentor to all that knew him. He was generous with his time, money and wisdom to his immediate family, his sister’s children and grandchildren, and his many employees in his motel and apartment properties.

Jim is survived by his wife; Berta, children; two daughter-in-laws; Antra and Janet; his grandchildren; Curtis and his spouse Karen, and Sabreena; his two great grandchildren; Trevor and Vincent, and nephew and nieces and their children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sister, Doris.

The tributes that have poured in before and after his passing, describe him as having a tremendous, positive impact on everyone he ever met. “ Hero, mentor, role model, optimistic can-do attitude, inspirational leader, supportive, engaging, and loving family man.” Jim lived his life without regrets and travelled each and every highway.

Services will be held April 14, 2015 at Beardsley-Mitchell Funeral Home, 1818 Sunset Cliffs Blvd., in Ocean Beach at 10AM. Internment immediately following at 12:30 PM at Miramar National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fostering Opportunities/ Dollars for Scholars c/o The Elsbree House, 5054 Narragansett. Ave., San Diego, Ca 92107.