James Pontus Feick

Celebration of Life

James P. Feick, age 91, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2024 at his home in Los Angeles. Jim is survived by his wife of nearly 68 years, Barbara Pearce Feick, his daughter Kathleen Ann Wagner (Jerry), his son James Pearce Feick (Yuko), grandchildren Jessica Ann Green (Scotty), Lauren Wagner Sutton (Scot), Elise Marie Meyer (Colin), Justin Yoshiaki Feick, Ashley Ayumi Feick, and great grandsons Brooks Austin Green, Brady Scott Green and Baylor Thomas Green.

Jim was born on April 21, 1933 in Ashland Ohio, and resided in Cleveland with his parents Harry and Agnes Feick and older brother Harry until they moved to Los Angeles in 1945, where he attended and graduated from Harvard Military School in 1951. He then went to the University of Arizona where he studied Electronic Engineering. Jim served in the US Navy during the Korean War and was in charge of the engineering division of an attack transport vessel (USS J.G. Breckenridge).

Following his service in the Navy, Jim joined his father and older brother in the family business where he developed the digital control division of Alloy Spot Welders. With Jim’s leadership the company designed and patented digital circuits still in use today. These new microprocessor controls, known as Alloy Weld Systems were used throughout the aerospace industry. The company also patented “honeycomb” technology used in jet engine seals, acoustic tailpipes, airfoils and other classified projects. Alloy was the first company in the United States to successfully use laserweld technology for use in military aircraft. Jim was very proud of the company’s many achievements.

In the 1970’s, Jim, along with his mother and father successfully operated a 900 acre Charlais cattle ranch in Scio, Oregon. Jim attended Oregon State University in Corvalis, Oregon to learn the science of cattle breeding, and artificial insemination. The Feick family spent many happy summers at the Hafco ranch in Oregon.

Jim was known for his passion to serve and was a Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriff for 42 years. He worked in the patrol and detective divisions. Jim also served in The Civil Air Patrol as a search and rescue pilot with Squadron 196 for many years. Jim loved to fly and could often be found at the Van Nuys airport working on his private plane with his beloved flying buddies. Jim believed one of his greatest accomplishments was the trip he made to the former Soviet Union following the wall coming down. He, along with his friend and partner Horace, purchased and brought to the US the first L-39 Albratros Jets. Jim spent many happy hours working on and flying these beautiful jets.

Jim touched the lives of many through his kindness and his generous spirit. Jim especially loved his dogs. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local humane society. May Jim’s memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of James P. Feick will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 11am at Pierce Brothers Mortuary in Westwood Ca. Located at: 1218 Glendon Ave. Los Angeles CA. 90024.