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James Himes Obituary
Gainesville - Dr. James Albert Himes passed away on November 16, 2008 at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida, after a brief but very brave battle against cancer.
Dr. Himes was born to Reverend Albert Himes and Nina Galleher Himes on August 12, 1919, in Lucas, Ohio. He was the youngest of four siblings. He grew up in Cambridge, Ohio, and played football in high school. During one of his high school games his leg was broken. Even though he spent months in the hospital, the leg never healed correctly and he walked with a limp until he had double knee replacement surgery later in life.
After graduating from high school, Jim attended and graduated cum laude, from Muskingum College in New Concord, with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry. He began his graduate program in the Department of Zoology at the University of Nebraska in 1941, but his studies were interrupted when he enlisted in the Army the following school year.
After boot camp and training, Jim's served overseas in India as a medical lab technician where as a young man he had many adventures. Besides assisting with lab work in Army hospitals, part of his job was to assist the Veterinary Corp. as well, and it was during this time that Jim decided he would pursue a career in veterinary medicine when he returned to the states. He was discharged as a Master Sergeant in December of 1945 after receiving many honors and medals, including a bronze star.
After WWII ended he completed his degree at Nebraska and entered the Veterinary program at the University of Pennsylvania, graduating with his VMD in 1950. He practiced as a country veterinarian in Culpeper, Virginia for several years and then moved to Florida where he worked in several small- and mixed-animal practices and served as a track veterinarian for the Daytona Beach Kennel Club.
While in Florida Jim met and married Ruth Naomi Himes, in 1959. In July of 1962, after the birth of their first child Leslie, Jim continued his education by enrolling in the N.Y. State Veterinary College at Cornell University in Ithaca. He worked as a research assistant while at Cornell and had a second daughter, Jillyn Alicia, while living in Ithaca . Jim managed to graduate with a Ph.D. in Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology in June of 1965 despite a lengthy bout with German measles.
Jim began his long career at the University of Florida in July of that same year as an Assistant Professor of Veterinary Science in the College of Agriculture. Four years later he was promoted to the rank of Associate Professor and in July of 1973 received a joint appointment in the newly forming College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida. On July 1, 1975, Jim was appointed Director of the Office of Veterinary Medical Education in the College of Veterinary Medicine and continued in that capacity for the next 15 years as Assistant Dean for Student Activities (1977-1987) and Associate Dean for Student Activities and Instruction (1987-1990). Following full retirement in 1992, Jim was appointed Professor Emeritus in the College of Veterinary Medicine and remained active as an advisor for aspiring veterinarians up until the current year.
In addition to his integral role as a faculty member and administrator during the formative years of the veterinary college at UF, Jim also owned and operated a Chinese restaurant, the Cathay Tea House, with his second wife, Genia. In 1978 Jim and Genia visited Genia's homeland of Taiwan.
The model of service, Jim was a record blood donor, and many professional awards and honors were bestowed upon him throughout the years. His dry wit, brilliant mind, kind demeanor and giving heart are tributes to his long and very productive life. He will be greatly missed by his family, his former students and his colleagues. He was greatly loved and admired by all.
Dr. Himes was preceded in death by his two sisters Peg Sims and Ruth Addison, and brother, Thomas Merle Himes, and by his eldest grandson, Ben Green. Survivors include his two daughters, Jill Himes and Leslie Clark, his son- in-law Thomas Clark and grandson Caleb Thomas Clark, all of Webb City, MO, his grandson Joshua James Green, of Joplin, MO, his niece, Barbara Montague, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, his nephew Mark Addison, of Alexandria, Virginia, his nephew Andrew Sims, of Athens, Maine, and his nephew David Sims, of Luxor, Egypt.
In lieu of flowers, Jim's family requests that memorial contributions may be made to the University of Florida Foundation Jim Himes scholarship fund. The family will receive friends at WILLIAMS-THOMAS DOWNTOWN FUNERAL HOME, 404 NORTH MAIN STREET, GAINESVILLE, FL on Tuesday, November 18, 2008 from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. A candlelight memorial service will be held at the College of Veterinary Medicine campus at 6:00pm on Wednesday, November 19, 2008.
FOR FURTHUR INFORMATION
WILLIAMS-THOMAS DOWNTOWN
(352) 376-7556
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Himes
Kerry Jackson
December 15, 2008
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of James Himes. He was the heart of the CVM, and dear to every student, employee and faculty that knew him. I remember waiting for the letter that would eventually admit me to the DVM program. I saw Dr. Himes on the sidewalk and when he smiled and waved, I knew I had been accepted. The letter itself was merely a formality.
I hereby honor a great man, and an even greater friend to all.
Celeste Clements
December 15, 2008
My father, Bob Clements, and I extend our sincere condolences to the family and close friends of Dr. Jim Himes. Dr. Himes was an advocate and mentor for so many aspiring veterinarians. He knew just what to say and how to help, regardless of the circumstance. And you always knew he cared. He took me seriously, even as a 7th grader who wanted to follow in her dad's footsteps. We are all fortunate to have known him.
Celeste Clements, Class of 89
Tonya Clauss (UFCVM 2003)
December 15, 2008
Dr. Himes was one of the most personable individuals that I've ever met. He always made one feel special with his amazing ability to remember a name and face even after just a brief encounter. I was fortunate to have met him 4 years before entering vet school as an employee at the CVM. He was always an inspiration - someone that was clearly dedicated to the people and animals in his profession. He will be missed.
Ellen Grygotis
December 14, 2008
How worried I was about ever possibly getting in to Vet School as an "older student" and after having been out of the college study mode for so long. But clearly it was not a concern for Dr Himes who counseled and encouraged me through the whole process. All through Vet school it was the same, he was always someone you turned to when you hit a bump in the road. I am forever grateful for his calm demeanor and encouraging, "no problem" attitude to life's challenges. He will always be remembered, just as he always remembered us years after graduation. Although we are saddened by his loss, his memory will live on in all of our hearts forever.
Suzanne Milam Heckman
November 29, 2008
Like so many other UF DVM alumni, I will miss seeing Dr. Himes at the various veterinary gatherings around the state. For many years, he attended our local association's student scholarship awards dinner in conjunction with our Christmas party. Yes, he did enjoy a good party always! He was all that everyone has mentioned: kind, cheerful, encouraging, generous-hearted, loyal, helpful... and he remembered everyone as a significant person. My condolences to his family and to those of you at the UF-CVM who have known him and worked with him for so many years. There will never be another Jim Himes! (UF CVM Class of 1992)
Rebecca Owens
November 29, 2008
I will miss Dr. Himes and my sincere condolences go out to his family. The world will feel a little smaller for a while. What a great mentor! He has set the standard for all of us to emulate.
Class of 1995
Ben L. Schachter
November 27, 2008
I met Dr. Himes in 1974 when I was enrolled in his undergraduate physiology class. Later, in 1976, he interviewed me for admission to the charter class. I will always remember him as one of the top educators and counselors that I ever met during my pre veterinary and veterinary education. He was the heart and soul of the CVM and a rare individual that comes along once in a lifetime. My condolences to his family. We have all suffered a great loss.
Chris Steers '88
November 26, 2008
Words really cannot express the loss that our veterinary family has suffered; not only those of us that knew and loved Dr. Himes, but those future students that will never have the privilege to know him as a friend and mentor. He was always the first (and many times the last) person that we would see at social gatherings, and I know that his spirit will never fade. Thanks for the memories!
Gregg DuPont
November 26, 2008
Jim was an amazingly warm and genuine human. The eyes are the window to the soul, and his eyes always showed his warmth, his caring, his intelligence, and...that impish glint. Always and for everyone. Just being close to him was a sigh of relaxation. One in a million. Thanks Jim. I share the warm thoughts and love of him felt by so MANY who enjoyed time at the UF Vet school.
Doug Hagler , '82
November 25, 2008
Dr. Himes was the one constant for all of us at the College of Veterinary Medicine. From the first day of orientation as wide-eyed freshmen to graduation to our 25 year reunion, he was always there, smiling and encouraging us. God blessed us all with a wonderful man.
Mark Thibideau
November 25, 2008
It is rare to know a man who can exhibit kindness and impart encouragement with apparent ease. Dr. Himes was a man like that. The world could use a few more like James Himes. May the Grace of God be with his family.
Melissa Loree, Class of 1996
November 25, 2008
Dr. Himes was extraordinary, both personally and professionally, and I feel blessed to have known him and to have experienced the profound impact he had at UF.
Award Ceremony 2008 - Dr. Himes award recipients Drs. Sarah Balaguer (left) and Agda Barreirinhas (right)
Agda Barreirinhas
November 25, 2008
To see Dr. Himes in the hallways with his calm smile was always very comforting. In the middle of all class work, exams, and demanding schedule I can't never forget the peacefulness I felt when I talked to him. Dr. Himes will be deeply missed by the students. My most sincere condolences to the Himes family and friends. I have attached a picture of Dr. Himes at the 2008 Award Ceremony.
Melissa Mueller, Class of '00
November 24, 2008
Not only did he have an amazing talent of remembering the face and name of every one he knew, he also always had a kind, sincere and supportive word for them too. His passion and interest for the success of UF's college of veterinary medicine, it's staff and students was without measure. I was always grateful for the help Dr Himes gave me and I thank God I was there the day he needed my help. I will miss him and I hope every one that knew him was as touched as I was by having him in that journey of our lives.
Beth Murphy
November 24, 2008
Many of our professors touched our lives in a profound way. Their compassion for the field of veterinary medicine drove them to share their knowledge and encourage our proficiency at this very noble art. Most knew our names during their tenure with us, but how many remembered your name and you after you were gone? I can tell you one person who had that gift. Dr. Himes embodied the compassion that we all felt while under his wings. I know that even thirty years after we first met he not only knew my name but he knew me!! He cared! I knew it! And I will always remember him! I thank him for the significant impact he had on my life! I thank his family for sharing him with all of us at the vet school. We were truly blessed to have had him in our corner!
Karl Brock
November 24, 2008
I first met Dr. Himes in undergraduate school as a student in his Anatomy/Physiology class. Was I surprised when he ended up as one of my three interviewers for Vet. school!
I remember how he bused tables at the Cathay Tea House to help his wife get the business started... and I think he was Dean of Students at the time!
The last time I saw him was at our 25th reunion, where he shocked me by knowing my name... and I hadn't even yet put on my name tag!
To know him was to love him.
We were blessed to have known him, and will miss him!
Karl Brock,
Class of 1981
Dr. Ken Simmons '81
November 24, 2008
Like so many many others, Dr. Himes alway made me feel important. I still marvel at his ability to recall not just your name but who you were. Always kind and always upbeat, he is my favorite memory of vet school.
Karen Baker
November 24, 2008
It was my privilege to know Dr. Himes as my teacher in the '70s and as my advisor when applying to vet school in the '90s. He is surely in heaven enjoying his just rewards. God bless his family. We will all miss his smiling face at Homecoming and at the NAVC alumni reception.
Karen Baker, Class of 1997
Salim Bootwalla
November 24, 2008
Please accept my deepest condolences for the sad demise of Dr. James Himes.
I am a graduate of class of 1995 and came to know Dr. Himes since 1990, when I was in a process of applying to the UF Veterinary School. I found him to be very friendly and down to earth person. He became more of a friend and guardian throughout the school year, than an Associate Dean of the school.
After I graduated in 1995 and moved to different places – Dubai, Mumbai and now in Singapore, I often kept in touch with him. He was always proud of my achievements. Knowing my Pakistani back ground, he often mentioned about his contributions during the World War II when he was stationed in India near the Burmese border. He was keen to visit me in India, but due to his health condition, he had to give up his traveling plans to Asia.
Dr. Himes was highly dedicated to his work and had a great affinity to the college and students. Even after his retirement he made himself available to the Veterinary College. Needless to say he was loved by every one in the school.
In short, I can say with confidence that God seldom creates a great human like Dr. Himes. May God rest his soul in peace.
I am enclsoing my picture with Dr. Himes taken during Class of 1995 dinner.
Kind regards,
Salim Bootwalla, D.V.M., Ph.D
Michael Ray
November 23, 2008
Dr. Himes was a real jewel of The University of Florida and a great member of the Gator Nation. Our most sincere condolences go out to his family and friends. Best wishes always from our family to yours,
Drs. Michael and Jilleen Ray, classes of 1997 and 1998
Jennifer Hofer
November 23, 2008
Dr. Himes was always there with a smile and a hello. He knew all our names and was truly a kind man. He will be missed.
Ramon Perez-Lopez
November 22, 2008
Dr. Himes was like a father figure for all of us that had the privileged of attending his beloved veterinary college. I won’t ever forget his great enthusiasm, his joyful and professional way of conducting himself and after all he never forgot to be forever young at heart. Doctor thanks for all your kindness.
L. Huang
November 22, 2008
Uncle James was a very kind man. Always with smile. He will be dearly missed and always remembered.
Charles Billings
November 21, 2008
I will always remember Dr. Himes being the first person to greet me when I arrived in Gainesville for my interview. I was from out of state and he made me feel welcome and at ease prior to interviewing. He was a truly a great man whose kindness will always be remembered.
Gary Clarke
November 21, 2008
What a sad day it is to learn of Jim's passing. My memories of Dr Hines run from the nervous candidate and his soothing persona to meetings at Cathy Tea House, and a wild time at a Jacksonville Vet Med Society Christmas party. The VMTH will not be the same without him! Those of us that knew and loved him will be impacted forever. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Gary Clarke--81
Joanie Palmero, DVM '07
November 21, 2008
I will always remember and appreciate Dr. Himes' kind nature and warm smile which brightened even my toughest days in vet school. I feel fortunate to have known him.
Peter Prince
November 21, 2008
I can honestly say I wouldn't be a veterinarian if not for Jim Himes.He wasn't just our Dean. He was our advisor and mentor and friend. Jim loved the vet school and the profession so much, no matter what else was happening he'd find a way to attend the homecoming reunion. It was so great to talk to him all those times. Our profession and our school are a lot poorer without him.
Moody McCall
November 21, 2008
He always made you feel good when he asked how you and your family were doing. The next alumni reception won't be the same.
Ray Henley
November 20, 2008
Dr. Himes was an incredible man with an unbelievable gift for remembering names of not just the students, but their family's as well. His advise to me as a new pre-vet student was instrumental. He pushed me to take tougher classes earlier which allowed me to apply as a junior. I got in on my second try as a graduating senior. His advise allowed me to achieve my dream a year earlier than if I had done it on my own plan. For this I am truely grateful. To this day, every pre-vet student I interview, I tell them of this story and tell them to go see the Dean of Student Services if they are serious about becoming a veterinarian. He was a great man who touched a tremendous number of lives. I am thankful I was one of them.
Ralph Raymond, DVM (Tusk '73)
November 20, 2008
He was a blessing to me back in 1968 and 1969 before there was a vet school there. He would show up a the Farrowing Unit on Radio Road to point out ways to keep the sows and piglets healthy. I was a work study student living there in the facilities. He is definitly remember with fond memories
David Renaud (Class 0f '91)
November 20, 2008
My condolences to families of Dr. Himes. Both families. Those related by blood and the larger veterinary family in which he influenced countless lives for the better. For me he will always be the face of the UF College of Veterinary Medicine and he will be dearly missed.
Swaran Dhaliwal
November 20, 2008
I will always remember our regular chats in the hallway. You were very supportive and it was so easy to talk to you. I miss our discussions about food, too!
We will miss you!
Swaran Dhaliwal, DVM (2002)
Lyndell Levitt '82
November 20, 2008
Dr. Himes was an exceptional person, always smiling, always positive and encouraging. He holds a special place in my cherished memories of vet school. He will be sorely missed.
David Moses DVM
November 20, 2008
Dr. Himes was an inspiration to all at the VMTH. He always seemed to know everyone by name. He will be missed greatly.
Alexandra Abramson (UF vet '11)
November 20, 2008
I only knew Dr. Himes for a short time. He was one of the very first people that I met at the veterinary school. He was so warm and wonderful and I will never forget how he always checked on me because, as he said, "we Cornell people have to stick together!" He was a wonderful person and I will greatly miss his presence in the veterinary school.
Kathy Kirkland
November 20, 2008
Dr. Himes was one of the first people I met at the CVM. His kind manner brought a smile to my face each time I saw him during my 10 years as a staffer there. He supported our fundraisers for Operation Catnip, too, in addition to all his help to the students. He will be missed terribly!
Larry Jernigan DVM '82
November 19, 2008
Dr Himes was the most positive encouraging soul at the veterinary college. He always remembered everyone's name, always made you feel special. His kind face and manner are locked into all my memories of the veterinary college.
John Weber '84
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes will have a legacy in all the students that have graduated from the U of F vet school. He is a part of us that will remain.
Dr. Sabina Squires
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes will be much missed from the CVM. He brought many smiles to us students and was a true joy. I will always think of him fondly.
Pam Humphrey
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes will never be gone. The College of Veterinary Medicine is proof that he was, is, and will be always with us and always admired.
mary ellen markunas feick '86
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes was the first person I met when I came to interview at the VMTH. I was surprised he knew who I was when I walked through the door. He was a kind and caring person and will be missed by all.
david specht
November 19, 2008
Dr.J. Himes, Was always available to the students at UF. He was always so encouraging and seemed to keep so many of us motivated through the years of vet school. He helped with continuing to encouraging me throughout the 4 yrs of my career at UF....he was quite the P.R. man for the vet school and everyone loved having him around. He will clearly be missed at UF. Thanks so much for sharing this wonderful man with all of us that went to UF. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
In friendship, Dr. David Specht ('90) Littleton, CO
Lisa Conti ('88)
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes is a UF icon. It is amazing that he was able to remember all of our names and motivate so many of us. I don't believe he ever missed an opportunity to inspire, nor did he ever miss the opportunity to have fun at parties.
Nancy Keller
November 19, 2008
I can only imagine, 'being and practicing Veterinary medicine' knowing Dr. Himes is present in spirit. I would not be a Vet, fullfilling my life purpose if it wasn't for Dr. Himes. Prior to getting admitted, I worked with large and small animals as he advised me and I named our favorite horse 'Dr. Himes', he limped too. God bless you and I am sure he sits right next to God above. Love Nancy Keller
Kelly Myers-Fitzwilliam ('02)
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes was truley a kind and special soul. He was the first person I talked to upon moving to Florida about continuing to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. His kind words and advice went a long way. It was a pleasure to know him. All my thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He will be missed!
May-li Cuypers
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes was the first person I ever met at the VMTH as I applied for veterinary school. His kindness, mild manners and gentle reassurance made me quickly realize that I had made the right school choice. I do no remember ever seing that man without a smile on his face. He is an inspiration to us all. My sincere condolences to his family. He will be greatly missed.
May-li Cuypers, DVM, UF 92, ACVIM Diplomate (Largo, FL)
Al Merritt
November 19, 2008
Jim Himes has been the heart and soul of the College of Veterinary Medicine at UF since its conception. His enthusiasm for the College's mission was infectious for students and faculty alike. His gentle guidence and always positive spirit shall never be forgotten. He will be sorely missed.
Claudia Valderrama UF 95
November 19, 2008
My deepest sympathy to the Himes family. Dr. Himes was an extraordinary individual, who touched the lives of many students. He has left wonderful memories for all the people that visited and aspired to become veterinarians at UF CVM. He will always be remembered and loved as a very important part of our college.
Diana Fellen
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes was an unbelievable person. You don't find many people like him. He always remembered your name and would stop and talk to you and give advice. It was an honor knowing him and he will be missed by all.
Michael McNulty
November 19, 2008
I am ever so grateful for the time,several years ago, when I had the honor of having my picture taken with Dr.Himes. I thanked him then for his vote of approval on my admission to veterinary school which resulted in my wonderful career in veterinary medicine and my life. Thanks Again and rest well my friend.
Denise Ginex, DVM, UF 91
November 19, 2008
My condolences to the Himes family. Dr. Himes is a great example of service and dedication to which we should all aspire. He embodied the spirit of the UFCVM. An era has passed and he will be sorely missed.
Sarika Patel UF CVM '08
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes was never without a sincere hello or a heartwarming smile and although he is gone, his impact on the UF CVM community and the Gator Nation will reverberate for years to come. 90 years is far too short a life for someone so special, but we are grateful for each and every moment he shared with us.
wanda sisum
November 19, 2008
Well I guess he wasn't a robot after all! For a while it seemed the only explanation of how one man could tirelessly bless,honor and help every human being in his path. A relentless advocate for his students,this man was KEY to my survival in school. Only after reading his obituary , and considering the timeing of our paths crossing, do I fully realize the profound blessing and honor I had in knowing this man.
Deborah Edwards
November 19, 2008
I think you would be hard pressed to find anyone that attended UF CVM during Dr. Himes' tenure that couldn't tell a story of some kindness. The world is a less warm & welcoming place now that he is gone.
Kate Cole
November 19, 2008
Dr Himes will be in our hearts and minds forever. The number of people that were lucky enough to know him is staggering, and his kindness immeasurable. I am deeply saddened by his passing, there will never be another soul like him. "We love you and you will be missed"
Dani McVety
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes was the first person at the UF CVM I ever talked to. As a junior in undergrad, I wasn't even sure I would ever get into vet school. Dr. Himes was encouraging, kind, and made me believe in myself. He remembered my name whenever I passed him in the hall and always made a point to ask me how I was doing. I will never forget his love for the students and for life in general. I'm still amazed at how many older veterinarians know him, and I feel honored to be a student during his time.
Irving Lerner
November 19, 2008
A fine, gentle man whose loss brings back fond memories and a tear to my eyes.
Irv Lerner, DVM
Class of '82
Lavonne Gray-Williams
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes was a wonderful person. He will be greatly miss at the veterinary hospital. He always had a smile for you whenever you saw him.
Lavonne Gray-Williams (Gainesville,Fl)
Dennis Brooks
November 19, 2008
Dr Himes was a great mentor to so many students. I will never forget how he could remember the names of all the students. He was unique and will always be remembered.
Erin Sanetz
November 19, 2008
The way Dr. Himes lived life was inspiring. What was beautiful about him was the way he inspired others to follow their dreams and to not give up until that dream was achieved. He believed in people and what they could accomplish, and it made people believe in themselves. What a great man!!!
Tim Dickerson, '08
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes leaves a legacy at the College of Vet Med that cannot be expressed in words. He had a brilliant mind that remembered every student that walked the halls. He also could tell you a funny story about every practitioner in the state of Florida. Dr. Himes never stopped smiling and always stopped to talk with students. Dr. Himes will always be a large part of the Vet School's foundation. He will be missed.
Tom Callahan 1984
November 19, 2008
I was blessed to know Dr. Himes. I applied to UFCVM three times. After each rejection, he was kind enough to sit down with me and recommend ways to improve my application. As he often said: "I told you it wasn't going to be easy." Thank you Dr. Himes
Douglas Shearer
November 19, 2008
Dr Himes was one of the kinds most helpful persons ever born and he remembered almost everyone he ever meet. I first met him in 1973 when I tranferred to UF from UCF. He was very helpful and I got into Auburn the first time I tried. He help me find a job and with many thing over my year at UF. We usually talked every week or two. I was alway very thankful. My sympathies Douglas Shearer DVM
Cecile Horowitz
November 19, 2008
Every Christmas, when I and my husband Mark Addison, along with our son Will, would go to visit Mark's mom, Ruth Addison, in Gainesville, we would get together with Jim. He would play poker with Will and tell us stories about his poker games when he was overseas during World War II. He would always contribute some wonderful exotic vegetarian meal that he had prepared. I was impressed by his ability to cook and try new things. And when we got our first family dog, Jim was always available to offer training advise and sooth whatever worries I had. He will be greatly missed.
Cecile Horowitz
Mitch Crystal
November 19, 2008
All DVM Gators have been touched by the caring and compassion of Dr. Himes. He will be dearly missed and always remembered.
Laura Earle
November 19, 2008
I will miss him terribly. Dr. Himes never forgot a student and always had a kind word to say to everyone. He was one of the fondest memories of my time in vet school at U of F. His passing is a huge loss.
Larry Gainsburg
November 19, 2008
Dr. Himes was a wonderful, soft spoken, and inspiring individual. I was very saddened to hear of his passing, and I send my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
Larry Gainsburg, DVM (charter class)
Brent Casler
November 18, 2008
Dr. Himes was the first person that I had talked to at UF's College of Veterinary Medicine, after I had decided to become a veterinarian years ago. Since that time, whenever I had stopped to talk with him at the college, he was always happy to see me and always put me in a good mood. Dr. Himes was truly a warm, kind spirit and I will always remember him.
George/ Cindy Seiler
November 18, 2008
We are very saddened to learn of Dr. Himes passing. He was truly an inspiration to each of us in our carreers and our lives. Always smiling, always looking at the positive side, always caring, always willing to help, always encouraging, a true mentor and friend. Irreplacable in so many ways. We know he is carrying the light with a smile and a gracious comment. His gentle spirit holds a special place in our hearts and we will think of him often with much love. Our most heartfelt and sincere sympathy to Jim's family-- Thank you for sharing him with us!!!
Aubrey Krichbaum
November 18, 2008
Dr. Himes always smiled, and made the day just a little brighter.
Cyrena Rose '02
November 18, 2008
We are so very sorry for the loss of such a great man. Dr. Himes was the welcome friend (angel) to so many students at UF CVM. His dedication to veterinary medicine and those of us that pursue its challenges will live on in the many, many generations of lives that he has touched.
John Burton
November 18, 2008
Dr Himes was a very special man that touched many of our lives. He will be missed by all of us that had the pleasure to know him. John and Maureen Burton
Amber Menendez
November 18, 2008
Dr. Himes was truley an inspiration and will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers.
Bill Owens
November 18, 2008
I would like to express my sincere sympathy to Dr Himes family. He was one of the most wonderful people I have met in my life. The first day of vet school he introduced himself and was a friend and teacher after that. I found out he and my father went to high school togather in Cambridge, Ohio and my father was there when he broke his leg. Dr Himes father married my aunt and uncle. When my family came to Gainesville he invited us to Cathey Tea House and we ate in the seperate room off to the side and stayed most of the night. Even after graduation Dr Himes would keep in touch and take Marianne and I out to dinner in Tampa when he was on his way to Bradenton. I always looked forward to the Ocala Equine conference to see Dr Himes at the front desk and catch up on what was going on at UF. He was a very special person and will be deeply missed.
Renee Fisher
November 18, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Dr. Himes will be
fondly remembered by all of us.
WILLLIAM WISE
November 18, 2008
DR.HIMES WAS A GREAT PERSON.
I TOLD MY PARENTS I WANT TO BE
A VETERINARIAN AFTER TALKING
WITH HIM IN 1978. I WILL NEVER
FORGET HIM TELLING ME "IT WON'T
BE EASY TO BE A VETERINARIAN".
HE CANNOT BE REPLACED . HE IS THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE IN MY BOOK. W.M.WISE DVM, 1984
Emily Bassell
November 18, 2008
So many people passed through his watchful eye and so many were influenced by him in wonderful ways. We will miss him.
A Kelleman
November 18, 2008
My thoughts are with your family over your loss of Dr. Himes.
Dr. Himes was a very special person. He always had something helpful and cheeful to say to brighten your day. He knew every single veterinary student and later veterinarian by name.
Carolyn Frazier
November 18, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Rachel Germain DVM 2006
November 18, 2008
Dr. Himes was a fixture at the UFCVM. It will be very strange not to see him in the front office the next time I visit. He was always there with a smile and kind word for everyone, and will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time.
Arnie Goldman
November 18, 2008
I will always remember Jim Himes patience and kindness in providing advice before, during and after veterinary school about the varied life choices available to a veterinarian. He was the perfect advocate for the profession and a fine person. We are better for having known him.
Teresa Martinoli
November 18, 2008
My sincerest sympathy to the family of Dr. Himes. I always looked forward to seeing him and chatting with him while passing in the hallway over the years, both when I was a technician and then a student. He always had something positive and encouraging to say, and I could never believe how he always remembered my name! He will be greatly missed.
heidi goss
November 18, 2008
I am extremely sadened by Dr Himes passing. He was a great man and mentor to me. Always had a kind word and uplifting smile. He will be greatly missed. Heidi Goss DVM 1989.
Carole Chapman
November 18, 2008
If it weren't for Dr. Himes, I wouldn't be a veterinarian today. When I was 17 years of age I went to him for advice about which classes I should take to get into veterinary school. He always encouraged me and remembered my name and who I was. He will always have a special place in my heart. I love you Dr. Himes!
November 18, 2008
Dr. Himes was a wonderful man. I worked for him for 5-1/2 years in Student Services. His first priority was always helping the students in whatever way he could. It was my pleasure to know him.
Alice Croft
Pamela Wood
November 18, 2008
Jim Himes was an exemplary human, he had kind words for everyone. He was the first person I met in 1982 in my interviews for vet school.He will remain my vision of Florida, along with my classmates.
Amy Hall '03
November 18, 2008
What a remarkable life. It was a pleasure to know and be influenced by this gentle man.
A. Barbara Antz-Hanson
November 18, 2008
What a wonderful inspiration and encourager Dr. Himes was to me and I am sure to many other lives he touched. He has always held a special place in my heart and always will. I am thankfull to have known him.
Roberto Novo
November 18, 2008
Dr. Himes knew my name when I came to interview, knew my name throughout vetschool, and knew my name at my 10 year reunion. I have and will ALWAYS remember that! He was an amazing individual who will be greatly missed.
Corinne Willits
November 18, 2008
Dr Himes was my mentor for 5 years from 1976-1982 and taught me the admissions rules as I was his Admissions Assistant at the Vet School. He was fair, dedicated, hard working, loyal and most respected. His mark will forever be at UF for all he did for the Vet School and the lives he has touched.
Jack and Becky Beal '82
November 18, 2008
Dr. Himes inspired and encouraged many and he will be missed. He always had a smile and a kind word. I could not figure out how he always remembered my name.
wendy kozak
November 18, 2008
To a man that always made you smile when you saw him. You will be missed!
Ned Szempruch, UFCVM'86
November 18, 2008
Jim was a great individual, kind, honest and true. We are all better having known him. He is now with our Lord in Heaven!
Melissa Zebley ('97)
November 18, 2008
Dr. Himes will be greatly missed. I know how much I always looked forward to seeing him whenever I managed to come down for various functions. The NAVC Alumni reception just won't be the same without him there, greeting decades of students by name. How he managed to remember all of us, I have no idea, but he did. We will all surely remember him!
Martina Sander
November 18, 2008
Dr Himes was an incredible person. He is the reason I kept pursuing my dream of being a vet.He never let me give up and he was always so kind and encouraging. He has a very a special place in my heart as well as many others.My deepest sympathies
Lynnette & Jose Chaparro
November 18, 2008
You were such a wonderful gentleman! I wil miss your smile and talks every morning at the office. Our trip to Orlando last year gave my husband and I an insight on how much life meant to you. You enjoyed every minute of it.
Susan E. Anderson, DVM
November 18, 2008
My heartfelt and sincere sympathies to Dr. Himes' family. We, his former students and colleagues, will be forever grateful for his guidance, friendship and shining example of service to our beloved profession of Veterinary Medicine. We loved Jim and will miss him dearly. He was simply the best! UF CVM Class 1983
Eric Heskett (Class of '03)
November 18, 2008
To a wonderful individual, mentor and model for how to live an unselfish life. You are greatly missed.
David & Karen Lee
November 18, 2008
A truly kind and Gentle-Man and a wonderful mentor to all of us that knew him.We will greatly miss him.
Fred Schirmer
November 18, 2008
Jim Himes was a beacon to many, and through his influence, the light of knowledge and caring will continue to shine on through us for many generations. He will be missed. Thank you Dr. Himes
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