James Kwock Mah

James was the youngest of two sons and five daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Mah Yim Lung. He came to the United States as a “paper son” in 1939, and was detained on Angel Island for six months before gaining entry. He attended schools in Stockton and Fresno, including Edison High School.

Drafted in 1944, James served honorably in the U.S. Army Air Corps, lastly stationed in Germany. After he was discharge in 1946, he returned to Hoisan, where he met and married Jean Y. Yee in 1947, beginning a partnership that lasted 63 years.

James returned to the U.S. with his new bride. He worked forty-plus years for Holly Crest Department Stores, managing their stores in Lodi and Manteca. James had a reputation for being honest, dependable, and loyal. He was a hard worker much appreciated by his employers and employees alike.

James was an avid gardener, known for his ability to graft fruit trees. He loved to fish and to eat fish. And he won more often than not in his weekly mah jong games. He was active in Chinese community organizations, serving as an officer or board member for many years. He was, above all, devoted to his family and friends.

James was preceded in death by his brother, and four sisters, and by his beloved wife, Jean.

He is survived by his sister, Rui Fang Mah; son and daughter-n-law, Ken and Redena; granddaughter, Melanie; and by many extended family members.

We thank the staff of Kaiser Hospital for their care and consideration of James during his final days.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 27, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Lisle Funeral Home, followed by a wake service at 6:30 p.m.

A funeral service will be held at Lisle Funeral Home on Thursday, January 28, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Belmont Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Fresno, 2672 E. Alluvial Ave, Fresno, CA 93720. or the charitable organization of one's choice.