James (Jim) Everett Howard

85, of Yuba City passed away February 13, 2012 at The Fountains in Yuba City under the compassionate care of Fremont - Rideout Hospice. He was born March 13, 1926 in Woodland, CA. Jim was a longtime Yuba-Sutter resident. He worked as an agricultural sales representative for Chevron Chemical Division of Standard Oil for over 40 years.

Jim loved and enjoyed his occupation because it involved direct contact with the farmers and agriculturalists in his community. His degree in Soil Science from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, served him well in his life's work. He played a large role in assisting and advising growers on pest and disease related issues. Jim's reputation was exceptional because he was trustworthy and knowledgeable. He always conducted business with honesty and integrity and was highly respected in the agriculture communities in and around Sutter, Colusa, Butte and Yuba counties. After retirement, he was sought after for consulting jobs, especially from the rice industry.

Jim was an avid lover of nature. He enjoyed hunting, fly-fishing, gardening, golf, camping, and world travel and served his community as a Rotarian. He had an admired green thumb and loved sharing the fruits of his labor with family, neighbors and friends. Jim will be most remembered and known as the devoted family man. He shined brightly in his roles of husband, father and grandfather. Jim always put his family first and in their company he felt most content. He had great compassion for his pets and animals in general. Jim was a people person and thrived on visiting, telling stories, laughing and joking with friends both old and new. He had a twinkle in his eye, an optimistic outlook on life and lived it full and well. Jim will be forever loved and forever missed by all that knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years Barbara Howard of Yuba City, daughters Janice Bitzko (Mike) of Rocklin, Diane Miles of Auburn and Barbie Toschi (Rich) of Grass Valley, grandsons Eric Bitzko of Austin, TX, Steven Bitzko of Rocklin, and Jaxson Toschi of Grass Valley.

Jim is preceded in death by his sister Rowena Lindstrom.

Memorial services will be Friday, February 24, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Ullrey Memorial Chapel, 817 Almond Street in Yuba City.

Memorial contributions can be made in Jim's name to Fremont- Rideout Hospice 939 Live Oak Blvd Yuba City, CA 95991.

Arrangements are under the direction of Ullrey Memorial Chapel (530) 673-9542.