Dr. Jim Edwards

1938 - 2016

DR JIM EDWARDS James Earl Edwards died peacefully on January 21, 2016, in Chico California at the age of 77. Jim is survived by his wife Carolyn Edwards and his daughters Kimberly Bridges and Kelly Nokleby, son-in-law Brian Nokleby and grandchildren Holly and Ben Nokleby. He is preceded in death by his parents; Louis and Imogene Edwards and brother George Edwards. Jim was born on May 13th 1938 in Chico, California to Louis and Imogene Edwards. He graduated from Durham High School in 1956 and then went onto UC Davis where he received a degree in Veterinary medicine. He married Carolyn Brandt, his high school sweetheart in 1960. After finishing vet school, Jim and Carolyn moved back to the Chico/Durham area and he began working for Evers Animal Hospital. After 4 years Jim and Carolyn started their own veterinary practice and he quickly became the premiere large animal vet in the area where he practiced for 40 years. In addition to his large animal practice Jim taught at Chico State and then at Butte College offering a course on Horse Health and Disease which he taught for 29 years. His classes were always full and fun and he was known as the horse expert. His children and grand-children remember him as a hard working vet who cared about animals and going to work with him was always an adventure! Jim was a dedicated individual who loved the horse industry and was passionate about his community, his family and building his family practice. He was an active and dedicated member of the Free Masons, in which he was a Master Mason. He was also a part of the Comanche Riders Association and was Black Kettle to all his fellow Comanche's. He had been President and board member of Durham Rotary, board member at Chico YMCA, life member of American Veterinary Medical Association, and a life member of American Association of Equine Practioners and the American Endurance Ride Conference. Jim was also founding Charter member of the American Equine Sports Medicine Association and served on the board as well. Along with his career accomplishments he was also a Sigma Nu member from his college days at UC Davis. Jim enjoyed his weekly Breakfast Club Group. Jim was an avid fisherman and enjoyed taking his friends and family on fishing trips to his Deer Creek cabin as well as spending time in Jonesville where Jim and Carolyn own a peaceful mountain cabin. A memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday, February 2, 2016 at 1 p.m. at the Masonic Family Center. A memorial barbeque will be held at his Jonesville cabin this summer. The family would like to thank everyone at RAI dialysis, Dr Sarbu/Dr. Ferguson, and the Twin Oaks staff for their care and dedication to ensuring the comfort and care of Jim and the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Brusie Funeral Home.