James K Fusselman

James was born on March 6, 1936, in Mitchell, South Dakota to Vona Knight and Raymond Fusselman. James’s mother passed away shortly after his birth. James was raised by his paternal aunt and uncle, Mary and Bruce Johnson. They had three children.

James enlisted in the United States Army and was assigned a desk job. After the Army he met Janet Fusselman and they married in 1964.

James went to the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, South Dakota and graduated with a BA in Journalism. Shortly after, Eric, their son was born in 1969. Then, James went to an arts college in Santa Barbara, California and began working for a photography company that showed wildlife documentaries. Eventually, James and Janet moved to Fresno, California in 1973 where James worked as a Real Estate Agent. They settled in Fresno and in 1974 their daughter, Sara, was born.

James had a passion for travel, exploring, and learning about other cultures. James planned many family trips to many states in the United States, Mexico, Asia, and Europe. James loved collecting coins and often had coins from other countries in his coin collection. James enjoyed photographing his travels and would share his pictures through slideshows with friends and family when he returned from his travels. James planned several trips to Around the World for him and Janet eventually visiting all seven continents and more than 47 countries.

James became a developer of land and built and managed apartment properties. He also built single family homes in the Fresno, California area.

James enjoyed hunting, mostly turkeys and ducks. He hunted regularly in South Dakota with his cousin, Jack, and with friends in the Central Valley. James also enjoyed playing Blackjack, especially with his friend Mike. He was a marathon runner in his 50s and was in great physical shape.

James had two grandchildren, Alex and Ethan. He enjoyed spending time with them.

James is remembered for his kindness, generosity, and open-mindedness.

James is survived by his son, Eric, and daughter, Sara, his daughter-in-law, Maria Rosa, his son-in-law, Josh, and his two grandchildren, Alex and Ethan.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whitehurstsullivan.com for the Fusselman family.