James DeLap Cox

James DeLap Cox July 10, 1956 - September 23, 2006 Former resident of Martinez James DeLap Cox, son of longtime Contra Costa residents, died recently at his home in the Santa Cruz area. Neighbors of the family will remember the sounds of music from James' saxophone, and the youthful bands, that practiced at his Martinez home. The son of Christine DeLap Cox of Orinda, and James E. Cox of Lafayette. James, 50, attended the Berklee College of music in Boston, MA. A contemporary Julliard. He later graduated from Hampshire College in Amherst, MA. An accomplished musician, he went on to perform with noted jazz personalities on the East Coast. James was a man of nature, from the ocean to the rivers and woods. An early interest in wildlife and birds of prey led him to the care, tracking and training of hawks and falcons, a pursuit he followed diligently through out his life. He also persevered in his ability to write, from columns in college papers to movie reviews in Boston, MA. His latest book is entitled, "Hawk Memoirs," from 1997-1999. James spent many happy hours surfing with his brother during long summers in Hawaii, and also in California. He became an expert at running white water rapids in his kayak, and faithfully perusing the skies with his telescope to find elusive stars and planets. James was the beloved grandson of the late T.H. (Tony) DeLap, former state senator from Contra Costa County, and the late, Catherine DeLap; brother of Anthony Cox, also of the Santa Cruz area; nephew of Tony DeLap of Newport Beach, and his wife, Kathleen DeLap; his cousin Kelly Evans (Dan); his cousin Jack DeLap (Alpha) as well as Declan DeLap, age two. Catherine is the wife of brother, Anthony and Trevor, age two, is James' nephew. Memorial services are private. Placement will be at Rolling Hills Memorial Park, 4100 Hilltop Drive, Richmond, CA 94803, (510) 223-6161. Donations may be made to: Golden Grate Raptor Observatory, Building 201, Fort Mason, San Francisco, CA 94123, (415) 331-0730, or to a charity of one's choice. CIVIC CENTER CHAPEL WILSON & KRATZER MORTUARIES (510) 232-4383