Tuesday, February 20, 2018
Maybette and I have known Jim from when we joined Black Rock Yacht Club in the early 1980's. He and Myra quickly became close friends. We have many fond memories of great times together on and off the water. I was Fleet Captain while Jim was Commodore and he proved to be an excellent mentor as I later moved up the ranks.
Jim and I worked together on a new business project, and we had great times at an office I set up at home. I will never forget how persistent he could be in trying to talk his way into getting some new business. I would overhear him on the phone, he was awesome! Always pleasant and respectful, but never taking no for an answer. During that time his beloved C&C 41 Man O War was seriously damaged in a major storm over the winter. I could not believe how he negotiated with the insurance company to end up with a far better boat than he started with. I had to stifle laughs when I would listen to his negotiations.
Our daughter Meredith was one of the lucky junior sailors who benefited from Jim's development of the Big Boat Sailing Program. She was part of the crew for several years as Jim put it all together. She would tell you that it was some of the best times she had growing up. Jim taught the kids a great deal. But, importantly, he did it with a wonderful cheery attitude that made them all want to learn and do their best.
In later years I took Jim sailing on our boat when I would have to pick him up and drive him home because he wasn't sure he could find the way. But, his great spirit and wonderful sense of humor never flagged. During that time I wish I had done more. He deserved it. He was a great friend, and I miss him very much.
