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BURTON JAMES Obituary

Burton R. James, MD, a second generation Fresno, CA physician, passed away on December 15, 2017, at age 99. Dr. James was the eldest son of Charles A. James, MD, who was in general practice and obstetrics from 1921 to 1955. Dr. James graduated from Fresno High School, and Fresno State College. He attended George Washington School of Medicine in Washington, D.C., receiving his MD degree in 1944. He completed his internship and residency at Southern Pacific Hospital in San Francisco, CA. He served in the United States Army Medical Corps in Battle Creek, MI. After returning to Fresno, he was in general practice from 1948 to 1955. He then entered a residency program in ophthalmology at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. After completion of his residency, he returned to Fresno and became a founding member of the Eye Medical Clinic, Inc. When asked about retirement, he often said that he was not retired, simply did not go in to his office. He joined the Downtown Rotary of Fresno while in his sixties, and served as president. He traveled around the country to various Rotary meetings, making many long lasting friendships. He was a member of the Fresno County Medical Society, the California Medical Association, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. He also served as a National Board of Medical Examiners Diplomat in 1946, and a National Board of Ophthalmology Diplomat in 1960. He was a versatile and prolific writer of stories and award winning poems. He was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn R. James; father, Charles A. James, MD; mother, Sadie Reed James; brother, Charles James; and brother-in-law, Robert Reynolds, DDS. He is survived by his daughter, Bette James Zingarelli and her husband Robert; son, Burton James, Jr., granddaughter, Debra James Austin and husband Tom; granddaughter, Brooke Elizabeth Zingarelli of San Francisco, CA; great-grandsons, Garrett and Hayden Austin; sister, Betty James Reynolds; brother, Thomas James and wife Pat; and many nieces and nephews. A private service was held. Any remembrances may be sent to Nancy Hinds Hospice; or to the donor's favorite charity. Condolences may be submitted to www.yostandwebb.com.

Published by Fresno Bee on Jan. 21, 2018.
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As I'm putting away Christmas cards, I came across the cards Burton James always sent in July. (We received a very elaborate card & writing each July, as I'm sure did many of you.) It's the last correspondence I had from him and the theme was gratitude. I enjoyed my friendship with him and his example. Much missed.

Sorensen Camie

Friend

February 1, 2018

My family is sorrowed by the loss of Dr. Burton James. I always called him Dr. although he preferred Burton. The Dr. was an exemplary and gracious human being full of wisdom and good humor. We've known Dr. Burton James for many years as my father and I took care of his electrical needs whether at his cabin or his office or home. We became closer over the years during Rotary as he was my sponsor and has a friend who provided moral support for my engineering services company founded in the Historic Fresno High Area. The Dr. would periodically visit my office to catch-up and discuss historically and present events within the neighborhood. My children were very fond of the Dr.'s Christmas stories or Dr. Chipson as he would sign his Christmas stories. Every year, the Dr. would send his Christmas stories and would end each story with: Say Hello to the little ones- Dr.Chipson. My children enjoyed the Christmas stories very much for their bedtime readings. Dr. Burton James will be deeply missed.
Our deepest condolences to the James Family.

John Borrelli

January 27, 2018

I'm so sorry to hear of Dr. James' passing. Wow! 99! What an amazing life he lived! He was my friend and I loved everything about him. I will never forget decorating Christmas Trees with him for Make A Wish Foundation. I loved serving with him at church and to watch all the kindness and love he shared with everyone. I will miss him and look forward to seeing him again one day. ❤

Linda Garduno

January 21, 2018

He was a great example to ALL who knew him.

Jason Sorensen

January 21, 2018

I am very sorry for your loss. Dr. James made a very big impact on my life. He was one of the most kindnest people I have ever met. Until we meet again.
Robin Jacks

Robin Jacks

January 21, 2018

My mother worked for Dr James until her death in 1975. Our whole family really appreciated and admired him. He was a good man. Blessings to you and strength in your grief.

V. Dorris

January 21, 2018

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