James R. Mandich

Eureka, CA

James R. Mandich

April 16, 1949 - June 8, 2010

"A man of many colors"

Jim Mandich passed away suddenly on Tuesday, June 8, 2010 in Eureka, CA. He had been residing there for the past 5 years pursuing his lifetime passion of music and art. He was born and raised in Stockton. He attended Tyler & Hoover Elementary and graduated from Stagg High School in 1967, where he excelled in track and field. He was also a winner of many yo-yo competitions. He played little league baseball in Stockton coached by his uncle, the late Tom Mandic and later adult slow pitch softball on the legendary team "Topp Skumm".

He served briefly in the Navy, worked for Delta Switchboard and PG&E, and was a successful real estate agent with Century 21. He eventually retired from Lincoln Unified School District where he worked in the maintenance department as a plumber. He was an avid boater, water skier and fisherman while an active member of the Port Stockton Boaters where he served two terms as commodore, and was later made an honorary lifetime member. He also enjoyed and excelled at golfing with his buddies for many years.

Jim's passion for life was apparent in his extraordinary musical talent and songwriting. He was also an accomplished painter and sculptor in various mediums. He was a true artist at heart in every sense of the word. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his father James "Bud" Mandic and his uncle John Daniel Mandich. He is survived by his mother Charlene Mandic; daughter Skye Mayer (David); sister Sharon Enzie; grandchildren Cheyenne, Tanner and Miller nephews Fred Scott Martin (Elizabeth) and Darrel Enzie. Also numerous cousins and friends he loved dearly, and his angel Mary Stewart.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2010, 2:00 p.m. at Stockton Rod and Gun Club, 3120 Monte Diablo, Stockton. Donations in lieu of flowers, can be made to Hospice of San Joaquin County at the families request.

This obituary was originally published in the Stockton Record.