Sadly, we just learned that Beth passed away in January of this year . She was married to Richard Lang and died suddenly. She was residing in Concord, California.
This blog is dedicated to ALL the classes of Burbank High School. If you have something to add, please email me at cathyjpalmer@yahoo.com. Thank You!
Sadly, we just learned that Beth passed away in January of this year . She was married to Richard Lang and died suddenly. She was residing in Concord, California.
Born on January 6, 1952, in Los Angeles, California, Steve was the second child of John and Dolores Clift LeSueur. Steve grew up in Burbank, California, with his brothers David and Jeff and his sister Diana. He married Kathleen Reeder on March 26, 1986, in Washington, Utah. They moved from Salt Lake City, Utah, to Arlington, Virginia, in 1989 and have lived in the Glencarlyn neighborhood ever since.
Steve received undergraduate degrees in history and psychology from Brigham Young University, a master’s degree in history from George Mason University, and was an economics teaching fellow at the University of Utah. During his college years he served as a missionary in Norway for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Steve pursued a career as a journalist and magazine editor, working for various defense and technology publications. In addition, he was a published author and highly regarded Mormon historian. His first book, The 1838 Mormon War in Missouri, (University of Missouri Press, 1987) won the 1987 Best Book award from the John Whitmer Historical Association. More recently, he wrote Life and Death on the Mormon Frontier: The Murders of Frank LeSueur and Gus Gibbons by the Wild Bunch (Greg Kofford Books, 2023). His essays and articles on Mormon history have been published in numerous journals and books. His final book, Every Man a Prophet (Greg Kofford Books, 2025) was a novel exploring missionary life.
Steve’s generosity, enthusiasm, wit and varied skills made him a valued contributor to community activities. These included editing school and neighborhood newsletters, coaching his children’s recreation basketball teams from elementary through high school, and, most recently, helping to organize a speakers program at his local library branch.
His sense of humor and sincere interest in people made Steve a favorite of many extended LeSueur and Reeder family members, especially children. He organized card games, devised backyard athletic competitions, filmed impromptu musical performances and played elaborate jokes that are now legendary contributions to family lore. He encouraged a love of animals, most especially cats, hamsters, guinea pigs and rats, teaching his children to love, appreciate and care for them. His inclusion of his family’s cats as characters in lively bedtime stories highlighted his creativity and sense of humor. He welcomed summer visits from nieces and nephews, sharing his knowledge of history on numerous visits to local monuments and museums.
For two years, Steve endured a difficult regimen of treatments to fight pancreatic cancer. His courage, determination, optimism, graciousness and sense of humor were evident as he looked for ways to continue enjoying life. He spent time with family and friends, participated in community activities, attended jazz and theater performances, and traveled to New York, South Carolina, California, Utah, Colorado and Oregon. He made final edits to his novel and arranged for its publication in 2025.
Steve is survived by his wife, Kathy Reeder; his children Samantha and Daniel; his sister Diana (Randy) Bartlett; and brother Jeff. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Dolores Clift LeSueur, and his older brother David.
A celebration of life will be held on August 2 from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Ireland’s Four Courts, 2051 Wilson Blvd, Arlington VA 22201.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Steve’s honor to Friends of the Arlington Public Library or the John Whitmer Historical Association.
----
NOTE: Steve was the younger brother of Dave LeSueur from BHS '67 who sadly we lost 5 years ago.
Sad news... we just learned that Tania Foy Holm passed away in 2023.
Tania was the daughter of Ralph and Ruth Foy and her siblings were Dennis Foy (1946-2016) and Dona Foy Bruckner (1949-2023).
In 1967, Tania married Doyle Holm and they live in Penn Valley Calilfornia.
BY THE WAY...
Andrew Shillinglaw Jr. of Auburndale, Florida, passed away at the age of 67, on January 31, 2024.
Andrew is the son of Andrew and Mary Shillinglaw Sr and his siblings are Wade Shillinglaw BHS 76, Liz Shillinglaw BHS '79 and Patricia Shillinglaw-Seltzer BHS '81 (1963-2002).
Wesley J Allen, 84, passed away peacefully at his home in Cherry Hills Village on February 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Wes was born on March 4, 1940 in Topeka, Kansas to Elizabeth and Hugh Allen. He graduated from Burbank High School in 1958 and attended the University of Denver, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business and accounting. He worked at Price Waterhouse as a CPA before taking a job at Leprino Foods. He spent 38 years at Leprino, 28 of which were as President.
He married his high school sweetheart, Karen, in 1963. They celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary in June on a cruise to Iceland.
After retiring in 2005, he enjoyed spending time at their winter home in La Quinta, California. He and Karen also enjoyed an annual trip to Maui and traveling to many international destinations.
He is survived by his wife Karen, and two children, Kim and Lance. Kim and her husband, Brian, have two children, Dalton and Maddie. Lance and his wife, Lezlie, have four children, Brodie, Bentley, Jake and Ross.
His favorite role was as a grandparent. His grandchildren lovingly called him "Papa", and he treasured the time he spent with each of them. He will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and loved him. We will miss his laughter and generous spirit.
Services will be held at Fairmount Mortuary on Monday, March 10th at 10am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Cancer League of Colorado.
Barbara was the daughter of George and Ethel Kochey Irwin.
She was married to Ron Leiker, BHS '63, from 1965 - 1978 and they had 3 children: Kimberly, Andrea and Daniel.
Sadly, Kimberly passed away in 2005 and Daniel died in 2015.
A FEW FACEBOOK COMMENTS...
Cheryl 'Smith' Herzog
I’m so sorry for your loss. He was a great guy and will be missed
Debbie Grose Kaldunski-Cole
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember him well from high school. You will be in my prayers
Jaclyn S Gambaro
I’m so sorry for your loss. Praying for you and your sister and the rest of your family.🙏🏼
Michael Ruiz
So sorry to hear this, I’ve been friends with him since high school!
Susan Ragan Blair
What a blow to the heart. Man I am so sorry
Nancy Curtis Pourzand
💜
David Taylor
Sorry for your loss. I knew Darrel from kindergarten at Jefferson school!
Loanne Walker Ginchereaux
🙏
Cathy Stone
I am so very sorry for your loss and to hear this sad news. 💚
Brian O'Rell
I am very sorry for your loss.I do remember him from high school,And full of life is a good way to describe him.
Gary Bardakji
My condolences. I didn’t know your dad well but we had spoken. May he rest in peace.
Sandra Franco Trohanowsky
I'm so sorry . I've been wondering how he's been. Sending prayers for all.
Tom Brassil
Very sorry to hear of this but thank you for letting us know. God bless you and the family and God Speed Darrel 🙏
Danny Rutherford
WOW, Darren was a great guy. Great memories. RIP brother
Steven Van de Rostyne
🙏 so sorry
Deanna Bergman
Very sorry for your loss Jill! 🌷
Karen Greer Clayton
So sorry for your loss. Darrel was a good friend of mine. We went to our first Burbank night at Disneyland. So many great memories. Prayers for you and your family at this time 🙏
Susan Ghiselli Mauch
So sorry for your loss 💕
Corey Fredrickson
So many wonderful memories, he will be missed so much 😢 but never forgotten
Prayers and condolences to you and your family
Ron Wamhoff
WOW, one of my very best friends growing up. R I P
Kathy Noonan
So sorry for your loss. Your dad and I were classmates since elementary school. Truly a great human being.
Lisa Engelsman Birtle
Such a nice guy🙏
Patsy Raymundi
So sorry for your loss RIP
Dianne Postal-Simmons
A lot of memories … miss him, and Duane passed away too young. Sending love and hugs. God bless.
Steve Mcglynn
Godspeed hammer🙏 so many good times together. Bmac committee meetings, chic a Shay golf meetings @ Willard’s office . Sunrise film softball and so on. Will miss you my friend 🙏☮️😢
Nadine Aguirre Lujan
So sorry for your loss. Rest in peace.
Joanie Bailey
Sorry for your loss.
Chas Wilson
He was a great guy.
John Musich
Sorry for your loss. So sad to hear the news that Darrel has passed. I have fond memories of a great guy.
Marina Hayes
My deepest condolences to your family and friends who knew him! The nicest guy! RIP Darell Sorensen ! 🙏✝️🙏
Jonna Arell
Sorry for your loss
Susan Berger
🙏🙏
Debbie Burpee Wilander
My condolences to all who loved him! 🙏
Liz Allen
RIP 🙏😔
Sheri Fanderlik
So sorry for your loss
Roger Starkey Sr.
I moved across the street from the Sorenson boys on Jamestown Road in 1964 so I’ve known Darrel,Dwayne and David a long time. It’s it’s very heartbreaking to know that Darrell has passed. my condolences to you and your sister Godspeed Darrell. 
Karen Vitale
So very sorry to hear about your father Darrel’s passing. He was such a nice person when I knew him in high school. Prayers for your family🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Anthy Hellmers
Rest In Peace Darrel. He had great hair. What a fun guy and light hearted.
Many blessings of comfort
Rikki Moryuseph Haffner
I'm so sorry to hear about Darrel. I hope you find comfort in all the wonderful memories you shared with him. He was great and will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family 🙏🏻
James Russo
So sorry to hear of your father's passing.
Sending prayers to all that loved him!!
Michael K. Ragan
Larger than Life individual… I was a scrub Sophomore when Darrel was King of BHS… I can remember Him so clearly walking the Halls of BHS…Godspeed my Friend…
Vicki Herrin Fields
Rest in Peace ⚘️
Shirley Freeman
My condolences to the family. Sending prayers to the family.
Pamela Anglin Howland
So, so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. He was in my class at BHS. My husband is not on this page but I let him see your post. They grew up together on the same street. In fact..my husband had a nickname that everyone knew him by back in the day and he said it was given to him by your Dad and Roger Starkey. May Darrel rest in eternal peace in the loving arms of our Lord. You all will be in my prayers…🙏🏼
Debi Storm
Darrel was one of a kind! He will be missed. Prayers and condolences to you Jill and your family.
Muski Muskatell
So sorry for your loss. May his memory be a blessing.
Cheryl Bunch Eubanks
Very sorry to hear this news. Prayers for friends and families! 🙏♥️🙏♥️ RIP Darrell!🙏♥️
Peter Costas
I am so very sorry for your loss 😞
Daniel Fukumoto
Sorry for your loss…
Susan Wilson Whitt
So sorry for your loss. Prayers go up for the family😞🙏
Christopher Silveira
So sad to hear the sad news, Darrel was a great person. My condolences to his family
Dan Davis
RIP Bulldog
Mickey DePalo
Rest In Peace.
Susan Peña MacCaskey
Omg, I'm heartbroken.. Susn a nine guy
Jonathan Brewer
Grew up down the street from your Dad and his brothers. So sorry to hear that he has passed. RIP.
Mike Donathan
So sorry for your loss. Darrell was a great guy. 🙏
Kimberly Gorsuch
💜
David Young
Sad news indeed. Prayers for the family.
Michele Duarte Kilroy
I'm so very sorry for the loss of your dad. 💔😥
Sad news from Fuffy Richardson Marca '72. She lost her sister, Karen Richardson Nelson BHS '62, this morning...Our sympathies go out to all of Karen's Family.
"Hi Pam, it’s Fuffy.
My sister, Karen Richardson Nelson, passed away this morning at her home in Vidor, Texas. She was a BHS graduate class of 1962. I’m including her senior pic. Thanks so much! Much love to you and Jon! ❤️"
JULY 2, 2025 UPDATE
OBITUARY
Karen Lovina Nelson
April 2, 1944 — June 25, 2025
Karen Lovina Nelson, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and devoted service. Karen was born on April 2, 1944, in Burbank, California, to Elwood and Marie Richardson. Raised in Burbank, Karen graduated from Burbank High School in 1962 and went on to attend Brigham Young University in both Provo, Utah, and Laie, Hawaii.
In 1965, Karen met the love of her life, Clyde Nelson, at a church dance. Their courtship included date nights at Bob’s Big Boy where Clyde charmed Karen with his stories and humor over burgers, shakes, and fries. Karen and Clyde fell in love and were soon engaged, leading to their marriage later that year in the Los Angeles Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on October 28, 1965. Together, they built a strong and loving home, raising six children with care, commitment, and enduring values.
Karen dedicated her life to her family and her faith. As a homemaker, she nurtured her children with warmth and wisdom. She served faithfully in numerous church callings and was always a source of comfort and guidance to those around her. In addition to her work at home, she also supported her husband’s dental practice and later in life worked as a collector for an advertising agency, earning top collector several times.
Karen was a woman of many talents and interests. She enjoyed reading, drawing, quilting, cooking, and playing the piano. Her love of history and politics was matched only by her devotion to her country—Karen was a true patriot with a deep appreciation for American heritage. Ever curious and intellectually engaged, Karen kept up with the news daily and never turned down a challenging crossword puzzle or a competitive game of Skip-Bo.
Karen was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Elwood and Marie Richardson, her cherished daughter Lisa, and her beloved son Jason. She is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 60 years, Clyde Nelson; her children Garett (Rachel) Nelson, Michael (Jennifer) Nelson, Katie (George) Williamson, and Jeff Nelson; and many grandchildren who will miss her deeply.
A private memorial service in honor of Karen’s life will be held at 10:30am on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 6198 FM 105, Vidor, Texas.
Karen will be remembered for her faith, her love of family, her quiet strength, and the countless lives she touched through her kindness and example.
James Robert Gumm who was born to parents Robert and Francis Gumm was born on 4/24/1947 and died on 4/4/2018.
He leaves behind sons Dana Gumm (Cindy) and Craig Gumm along with granddaughter Samantha Gumm, as well as sisters Kay and Nancy. Jim served honorobly in the army and was a Vietnam veteran.
Arrangements are under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. His ashes will be buried at Willamette National Cemetery.
We just got word yesterday that our good friend and Classmate, Mike Nugent passed away this last Friday, June 13, 2025.
Michael Nugent BHS '64, was born on September 6, 1946. He passed away on June 13, 2025, in Plano, Texas. The Family said his passing was probably caused by a heart attack due to previous health problems.
Mike moved from Valencia to Plano, Texas to be near his daughter. He was an avid Sports Fan, a long-time referee of Girls Basketball and had also been a Baseball Umpire. Mike was a retired teacher and he was loved by all who knew him and he loved them all right back. He always had a smile, a hug and a kind word for everyone. Mike was one of the "GOOD GUYS" and will be forever missed by his Friends and Family which include his brother Bob Nugent who was in BHS Class 1967.
The Celebration of Life for Mike will be Sunday, August 10, 2025, from 2-6 PM at the Burbank VFW located at 1006 Magnolia Blvd., Burbank CA.
Pam Zipfel Kirkwood BHS '64 and Jon Kirkwood BHS '64
OBITUARY
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Michael Abram Nugent, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, coach, referee, mentor, friend, and dedicated sports enthusiast, on June 13, 2025, at the age of 78. He leaves behind a legacy rooted in learning, influence, discipline, teamwork, guidance, fairness, support and an unwavering passion for sports.
He was born on September 6, 1946, in Paterson, New Jersey, Mike dedicated his life to his passion for learning and teaching. As a proud “Bulldog” by way of graduating from Burbank High (1964) and the University of Redlands (1969), he found his true calling as a teacher and “Bulldog” at Bowman High School. There he took immense pleasure in shaping young minds, fostering critical thinking and supporting teens on their journey to adulthood. While receiving the Teacher of the Year award from the Hart District in 2003 was a point of pride, it was surpassed by the profound satisfaction of seeing his Bowman students graduate and successfully transition into adulthood, many of whom he maintained contact with for years.
Outside of academia, Mike's greatest enjoyment stemmed from his lifelong involvement in sports as a player, coach, referee, and all-around supporter. He was a highly respected basketball referee for four decades and an acclaimed coach, allowing him to instill principles of fair play, discipline and teamwork in generations of athletes. In recent years, he took immense pride and delight in cheering on his grandson Robert across various sports, including football, basketball, baseball, soccer and track.
Mike was a natural mentor who found great satisfaction in guiding, coaching, advising and supporting others. He seamlessly combined his pedagogical wisdom with the values of sportsmanship; using this unique approach to help others navigate challenges and discover their full potential, both in and out of the classroom and on and off the court.
In 2019, The Santa Clarita Signal published an article, “The Man Behind the Whistle”, capturing the essence of Mike Nugent.
Mike is survived by his loving children, Vivian Forr, Tami Nugent, Leigh Bissell and Ryk Comerford; his cherished grandchildren, Robert Nugent, Kierstin Wilcox and Easen Bissell; his adored great-grandchildren, Carson and Emerie Wilcox; his admired brother Bob Nugent; beloved nephew Robert Nugent, dear niece Nicole Nugent and his treasured (former) wife of 41 years Judi Nugent. He also leaves behind a vast network of former students, colleagues, friends and sports fanatics whose lives were profoundly impacted by his passion and spirit.
A Celebration of Life will be held on August 10, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Burbank VFW 1006 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank California. Guests are encouraged to wear sports-themed attire, with Lakers, Dodgers, USC, UCLA or Rams gear being a favored choice.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Bowman Scholarship Fund in Michael Abram Nugent's name, supporting the next generation of Bulldogs in their education. To donate, please make checks payable to Bowman High School and mail them to: 21508 Centre Pointe Pkwy, Santa Clarita, California 91350.
Sunday, August 10, 2025
2:00 - 6:00 pm
Burbank VFW
1006 West Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank, CA 91506
A FEW FACEBOOK COMMENTS
Jean Parrinello-Longmore
RIP. 🙏🙏🙏
Martin Lillibridge
RIP Bulldog 🙏
Kathleen Moore Nutting
This is such sad news. Mike was just a great guy who loved his daughters and grandson, whom he could never stop bragging about. May Mike’s soul Rest in Peace.
Bob Hart
Mike was the real deal.. intelligence compassion with a huge heart. he will be remembered
Timothy Zuma Tim Tolnay
I'm so sorry to receive this news. Mike always seemed to be on a basketball court or baseball field. Mike was a big part of the sports scene in Burbank during the 60's and 70's.RIP Mike, I will think of you often.
Bob Long
Sad to hear!
Sue Basile
😪🙏
Tom Moriarty
So sad to hear this.
RIP Mike!!!
Loanne Walker Ginchereaux
🙏🏻
Sue Burnette
RIP ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Henry A Garcia
So sorry for your loss. It was a fun gentleman played on a ball at the park with him. Rest in peace. 
Sue Flynn
I'm so sorry for your loss, I know what that's like, so difficult
Julian Almaraz
RIP coach 🙏, he was my little league baseball coach.
Mickey DePalo
Rest In Peace, my friend. Your passion for sports, coaching, teaching, and life in general is a wonderful legacy. And, last but certainly not least, the genuine pride and love you had for your beautiful daughters, Vivian and Tami. 🙏
Steve Mate
I believe he was Margie Nugent’s older brother. Sadly Margie passed away last year and now Bob.
Linda Everett
I am so sorry to hear about Mike’s passing. My heart goes out to his family and especially to his brother, Bob Nugent, who was a dear friend of mine when we were seniors at BHS.🙏😢🙏
Patricia Sorley
Oh Mike I remember what a nice stable polite guy you were in high school. R.I.P. old bulldog. Condolences to the loved ones left behind.
Liz Allen
RIP
John Deahl
RIP Mike. We played a lot of street ball back in the day and we always had a ton of fun. Fond memories of you.
Nancy Olsen Barry
I am so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. First Margie and now her brother. My prayers are with the family at this sad time. 🙏🙏❤️
Karra Blackburn Merritt
May he rest in peace to Eternity 🌹
Donna Moore
Sad news indeed. He was preceded in death by his younger sister Margie, class of 1971
Mike Catalano
My favorite ref. 🙏🏻😇
Vicki Herrin Fields
Rest in Peace ⚘️
Warren Swanson
'The Nuge'. Mike went to Redlands with several of us after graduating. He actually lived next door in North Hall our freshman and sophmore years. He was notorious for being able to sleep anywhere anytime. We thought he took a lot of naps to avoid studying. I think becoming a ref was the perfect avocation for him. I saw him last at our 50th college reunion, where it was great to reconnect. My condolences to his family and his many friends.
Michael Ruiz
So sorry to hear this, a great guy!
Harold Maxham
RIP Mike.
Brian Keiser
RIP 🙏 Mr. Nugent.
Carole Collins
Bless you dear
Mike. I always enjoyed visiting with you! 😇👍
John Panarisi
So sorry to hear he was a great guy
Marlene Zober Lipman
So sorry to hear about Mike. My condolences to his family. 🙏
Gilbert Tobón
Rip ❤️🎈🌻
Al Fredrickson
Always fair as a referee and umpire and an all around fine person RIP Mike Nugent 😇
Pam Kirkwood
Here is a Great picture of Mike Nugent '64 and our Senior Bulldog President, Corey Fredrickson '74
Mary Lou Johnson Anderson
I'm so sorry to hear this. Prayers of comfort for Mike's family
Darlene Culotta
I remember him. Sorry to hear this.
Peggy Melton Cyphers
RIP Mike
Annette Dinolfo Bennett
🙏🏼💙🙏🏼
Charles C. Harper III
Mike and I played on the same little league baseball team and also in the street and in his driveway on Jolley Drive. His dad was our coach. I loved spending time at the Nugent's.
I'm so sorry to hear of his passing. He and Jack Harris and I were all neighbors, along with Rita Blankenship. My best wishes to his family. He was a good friend who I look forward to seeing again in the next life.
There is a next life, I know that from experiences too holy to mention. My sincere condolences. He's in a good place where he won't have to put baseball cards in his shoes to cover the holes in his shoes.♥️
Geno Munari
So sorry to hear this. My prayers for Mike and his family and friends.
Cheri Pene
My condolences to Mike's family and friends, RIP Mike 🙏
Cheri Pene
Thoughts and prayers are with Mike's loved ones
Suzanne C. LaBonge
I'm so sorry to hear this. Prayers of comfort for Mike's family
Narita Siegel
Was he related to the Nugent Chevrolet Nugents?
Nainsi Skiba
RIP.
Ron Negus
Mike was a kind gentleman who I was lucky enough to teach to water ski and have fun boating at the lake. RIP Michael Nugent.
William R. Maxham was born on May 24, 1939 in Cottonwood, Alabama to Virginia and Ransom Maxham.
“Bill” attended Burbank High School and graduated in 1956. He was the Quarterback for the Varsity Football team.
After graduating high school, Bill served in the Army National Guard. Later, Bill worked as an Assistant Cameraman for the Film Industry. He also was a photographer and became an accomplished Batik Artist. He was given the color formula for Batik from a famous Batik Artist in Malaysia and went on to produce his very own Batik pieces of Art.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents Virginia and Ransom Maxham, his sister Martha Maxham in 2002 and his brother, Major Benjamin Maxham in 2012.
He is survived by his son Christopher Burt, his daughter, Cuinn Maxham and his stepson, Gram Burt, grandsons, Kyle and Ryan Burt and his twin brother and sister, Harold Maxham (BHS ’63) and Mary Maxham Healey (BHS ’62).
A Celebration of Life will be held for Bill on Saturday, June 21, 2025, in Stevenson Ranch, at the home of Harold Maxham’s daughter, Linda Klein. Please contact Harold Maxham or Mary Healey for the time and directions.
Received this sad text today from Jodean Ardizzone Myers...
The BHS Class of '64 loses another Classmate...
Jon and I received the sad news today that our long-time friend and BHS '64 Classmate, Joe James passed away this morning (May 25, 2025). Joe had battled a very difficult disease for several years.
Joe was born (October 24, 1946) the youngest of 5 children and he was also the proud Father of 5 children and many grandchildren.
He loved sports and excelled in every sport he played. At BHS, he played Football, Basketball and was on the Track Team. He also played Football at Glendale College and graduated from BYU. He lived in Utah and became a teacher and went on to become a high school Principal.
Joe was part of a "core group" of 5 guys (also from BHS '64), who literally grew up together...Rees Smith, Dennis King, Rollin Adams, Tim Ross (R.I.P.) and Joe James (R.I.P) For 60 plus years, these 5 fellows were like brothers. There were others who became part of the group too...Tim Avery '63, Terry Hutchens '64, Leigh Hilt '64, and Ron Riddle '64 (R.I.P.)...They met every summer to vacation together at Lake Powell and other places. They were (and always will be) inseparable.
Jon and I have so many fun memories and stories about Joe. He always had a smile and was always ready to have fun...he was a character and a good friend. We shall miss him a lot.
Bon Voyage, Joey...God Bless...
Love, Pam Zipfel Kirkwood '64 and Jon Kirkwood '64
A sweet note from Joe's granddaughter along with more photos found on Facebook...
On
Sunday May 25th, my grandpa passed over. I am so grateful for all of
the fun memories, riding atvs, flying through the air after getting
flipped off of tubes on the lakes, playing in his neighborhood pool,
eating the yummy food he cooked while he asked the whole time if it was
good(it
was), riding with him on his Harleys, getting bribed to massage his
feet, hearing stories about his life and playing the game he made called
“grandpas life”. I will miss him so dearly but after years of suffering
with Parkinson’s I am so glad he is no longer in pain. I know he is in a
better place and that he will continue to cheer me on.
I love you forever and I am so grateful for the memories and love you gave me.
Obituary found online
https://www.standard.net/announcements/obituaries/2025/may/28/joseph-john-james/
Joseph John James passed away peacefully surrounded by his five children, whom he loved. After years of living with Parkinson’s, he left his broken body behind. He also left behind a legacy of love, adventure, and influence. “Once a teacher, always a teacher,” he influenced thousands of students and athletes with his genuine love for kids and passion for teaching.
Joe was born October 24, 1946 to parents John William James and Ruth Lucille Thompson. As the youngest of five, he was loved by his two sisters and tagged along with his two brothers. He enjoyed his childhood in Burbank, California. As a teen, he lived for sports. He played football, basketball, track and field and softball. He played football at Burbank High school as a tight end, then at Glendale Junior College and eventually for Brigham Young University. He graduated from BYU in Physical Education. His first teaching job was at Springville High School, as a science teacher and coach–the beginning of his lifelong passion. “Coach James” was born.
He taught Human Biology and Sports Medicine at Weber High for 22 years. He later became a principal for Fremont High. He was a football coach, a golf coach, and for many years, a wrestling coach. He retired at age 55.
Joe was blessed with a full life, including several significant relationships. He shared 35 years with his first wife, Phoebe Jane Wilkins (Fournier), and together they raised their five children. He later found companionship with Pat Larsen Rhodes for ten years and then Sherry Ward. While each marriage came to an end, these relationships brought lessons and connections to his life.
Joe is survived by his five children: Erin Madsen (Michael), Lindsay Johnson (Haakon), Ryan (Heidi), Taylor (Shannon) and Dustin James (Jyl) and 21 grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 2, at 2:00 p.m. at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary at 1867 N. Fairfield Road, Layton, Utah. Friends may visit with family on Sunday, June 1, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and June 2, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the mortuary.
Services will be live-streamed and available the day of the services by scrolling to the bottom of Joe’s obituary page at: www.lindquistmortuary.com.
Condolences may be sent to www.lindquistmortuary.com.