James was born on March 14, 1938 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to the late William and Minnie (Sauer) Weiss.
Jim grew up in Oak Creek, Wisconsin and after high school served in the Army, spending his years at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. He then worked in the airline industry at Eastern Airlines in Chicago. He later worked at United MileagePlus in Los Angeles. Jim left his job at MileagePlus to start an orchid business. He was known to locals as “The Orchid Man” and sold thousands of orchids at numerous farmers markets in Los Angeles County.
Jim met the love of his life, Mary Lou, at Eastern Airlines in Chicago and married her in September 1971. They welcomed two sons, Steven and Brian, whom they raised in Hermosa Beach.
Jim loved plants and spent many hours gardening in his backyard as well as on his orchid nursery. He loved nature and was exceptionally knowledgeable about wildlife. Jim enjoyed many vacations fishing with family at Post Lake in Wisconsin and also in Alaska. He also enjoyed time at any casino along the way. He was a talented chef and created many memorable meals. His determined German personality shined through during difficult times.
Jim was preceded in death by his wife Mary Lou (Haag Tillapaw) Weiss; his parents, William and Minnie Weiss; his siblings William (Maureen) Weiss; sisters Mary Weiss, Lois (John) Schmitz, and Kathleen (Joseph) Geletko. He is survived by his sons Steven and Brian Weiss; sister-in-law Susan Haag Burton; grandchildren Nikki, Jacob, and Gunnar Weiss. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
There will be a Memorial to honor Jim’s life on Oct 17th 2026, 11am at Lighthouse Memorials & Receptions, White & Day Center, 901 Torrance Blvd, Redondo Beach California.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to this digital obituary.
