JAMES "JIM" VELLA
APRIL 3, 1933 - FEBRUARY 6, 2013
Jim Vella passed away at his home due to a sudden accident.
Jim is predeceased by his parents, Peter and Carmelita Vella.
Jim is survived and lovingly remembered by his companion of 23 yrs, Shirley Vollmer, Shirley's daughter, Renee (Dave Harvey), brother Peter Vella, sister Gail Anglim, sons, Dave Vella, Bruce Vella (Noreen), Matt Vella and Vince Vella (Kelly), nieces and nephews, 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
Jim graduated from Modesto High School where he was active in football, attended MJC and was then drafted into the US Army during the Korean War Era. Most of his military career was spent playing football against future NFL players.
Jim was a business owner in Modesto but his love for the land always drew him back to his roots, farming.
Jim was a member and past president of the Escalon Sportsman Club, active member of Old Fisherman's club, Elks club, American Legion, Coast Cattle duck club, Ducks Unlimited and past volunteer member of the Salida Fire Dept.
Jim was an outdoorsman in every sense of the word. Jim was a mentor to so many people in their hunting and fishing experiences. His friends and outdoor partners spanned generations. His sons, their friends, his grandkids and their friends all were influenced by Jim's love for the outdoors. He taught them well!
The memorial service will be held at Big Valley Grace Community Church, Wed., February 13 at 11AM at 4040 Tully Rd., Modesto, Ca 95356. With a celebration of life to follow.
Remembrances may be made in Jim's name to Duck's Unlimited or California Water Fowl Assn.
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Published in the Modesto Bee from February 9 to February 11, 2013
