James Walter Silver Jr.

James Walter Silver, Jr. ("Jim")

Resident of San Jose

Was born on July 15, 1938 to James Walter and Irene Silver in Hilo, Hawaii. He passed away peacefully on October12, 2010 at home in San Jose with his beloved wife, Kathleen Ann, by his side after a valiant two year battle against cancer.

Jim spent his youth on the plantations of his beloved Big Island of Hawaii and could proudly claim that he did not wear shoes until forced to upon entering high school. He enjoyed a rich family history and has fond memories of his days spent on the island with his pre-deceased younger brother, Andrew James. There currently exists a bench by Hilo Bay dedicated to the multi-generational Silver family presence on the island.

Jim came to the mainland in 1956 to attend the Menlo School of Business in Menlo Park, CA. He eventually met his future bride, Kathleen, in Murphys, CA where they were married after a brief courtship. The couple recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Jim and Kathleen returned to Hawaii where their three children were born. Jim worked at Hawaiian Electric and joined Castle and Cook as an Internal Auditor. Jim was transferred to the mainland in 1969 where he continued his career for 20 years. Jim then went on to a rewarding career as an Executive Recruiter at The Chester Group and eventually started his own recruiting firm, Financial Staff Resources. After retiring in 2000, Jim spent many hours dedicating his time at Sacred Heart Community Services in San Jose, CA where he gave selflessly. He also enjoyed his time at and served as a board member of SIRS also in San Jose, CA.

Jim was an avid sportsman and sports fan. He enjoyed playing baseball, softball and golf and watching the 49ers, Giants and Sharks.

Jim is pre-deceased by his brother, Andrew James; his parents, James Walter and Irene Silver; and, his mother and father-in-law, Aileen and Mac McKimens of Murphys, CA. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen of San Jose, CA; his adoring and loving children, Mark James of Salinas, CA; Jeff Alan of Marin County, CA; and, Molly Aileen of San Jose, CA. He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Angie and grandchildren, Ashley Aileen and Andrew James also of Salinas, CA who worshipped their "Poppa".

The family would like to thank the Kaiser Oncology Nursing staff and Kaiser Hospice for their kindness and amazing care.

Private services for the immediate family are pending and will be held in Murphys, CA. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers donations be made in his honor to Sacred Heart Community Services.

Jim was loved by so many and touched the hearts of all with whom he came in contact. He will be missed.