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James Deakin Obituary
Glendale - James Deakin passed away May 1, 2018 at his home in Glendale, AZ after a short but devastating battle with ALS. He was 60 years old.
James is survived by his wife of 34 years, Pattie, his children, Danielle (Tyler) Stonebraker, J.D. and Kendall, his precious granddaughters, Summer and Alyssa Stonebraker, brother Robert (Debbie) Deakin, sisters Bette Lynn Edelman (Freddy Brandes - deceased) and Nanette (Ira) Spector. He is also survived by numerous fun-loving nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. James was preceded in death by his parents, James and Adele (Storms) Deakin, Jr.
James was born in Albuquerque, NM and moved to Las Vegas, NV in 1964. He is a 1976 graduate of Las Vegas High School, where he was a state champion in the 880 in track and field and basketball. James graduated in 1981 from Southern Utah State College where he was also on the track team.
James treasured his family, lifelong friendships, great neighbors and his Farmers Insurance family, where he worked for 33 years. He loved tailgating for the Arizona Cardinals and watching the Diamondbacks, ASU teams and sporting events of all kinds. He loved the beach; he loved the sun; he loved hiking and fishing, and he is "Climbing the Stairway to Heaven."
Although James passed away far too soon, his warmth, practical jokes and kindness will be forever missed.
There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. Please consider donations in memory of James to the ALS Association-Arizona Chapter or Hospice of the Valley.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Deakin
Michael Page
November 28, 2018
Jimmy D! My old childhood friend with whom I ran nearly naked during long hot summers playing ball tag between the neighborhood houses, sharing great meals at our homes, enduring the add-on to your house. I always remember the smell of your dad's pipe as he sat in his chair watching TV, and your mom requiring you to put an egg in every milkshake you made in the blender. I remember sleepovers in the back yard, and how much you liked my sister! And I'll never forget your hippie style Volkswagen bus you had! I'll miss you, my friend. Thank you for so many good memories.
Ella Johnson
May 18, 2018
I remember James as a very kind man, very hard working and full of fun. He was my supervisor for a time, then later worked together in the Scottsdale office of Farmers Insurance, and I very much enjoyed working with him. I miss seeing his smile every day at work since I retired. He will be missed so very much.
Brian Timmons
May 9, 2018
My condolences to the Deakin family. James and I played racquetball for many years. He was a fierce competitor on the court. After the match we joked, laughed, and talked about many things including family. I feel that I know your family a bit even though we haven't met. I am so sorry for your loss.
May 8, 2018
I will never forget James every October successfully scaring me during our Halloween book club evening at your house. I always knew he was hiding somewhere and that I should just stroll on up to the house, but he did every time--made me jump out of my skin!! Thank you, James, for your humor and fun loving spirit. You are missed. It was a joy to know you. Christine Smith
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May 7, 2018
Pattie I am so sorry for the loss of James. He will always be in your heart. Best to you and your family. Thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Linda Dunlavey
Kathy Gaines
May 7, 2018
My condolences to the Deakin family. I had the pleasure of working with James when he started at Farmers Insurance. He was one of the nicest people I have ever met. He truly will be missed. Huge hugs to his family.
Cathleen Stoberski-Mascitelli
May 7, 2018
James was so kind, patient, and fun. His smile and laughter made everything better! I worked with him years ago at Farmers Insurance. I have so many fond memories of him. My sympathy and prayers to his family.
lou ann tiger
May 7, 2018
My prayers for all the Deakin family. James was the boy across the street growing up in Albuquerque. Such a great personality and kind heart.
Paulina Diaz
May 6, 2018
My Condolences to the Deakin family. May he Rest In Peace embrace in Father's loving arms of Mercy.
Karyn (Bouschor) Cherry
May 6, 2018
James was a truly wonderful person. I am proud to say that I hired him when he started his career at Farmers. He never disappointed. Everyone loved him. A vibrant life cut too short. My husband, Jack, introduced James to Tuaca, a mans drink. Those were good days. My sincere sympathies to all his family and friends. Karyn (Bouschor) Cherry, Las Vegas, NV
Manuel Lugo
May 6, 2018
James was a good man dedicated to his family and career. I worked next to him for about 5 years and we shared a lot of good times. He was always upbeat and was usually smiling, cracking a joke or pulling some kind of prank. It was a pleasure and a privilege to have known him.
Charles Panton
May 6, 2018
Very sorry your loss. James and I shared a lot of laughs over the years. He will surely be missed.
Mario, Keith, Hunter, Conner
May 6, 2018
Our thoughts are with your family. Sorry for your loss.
Tom, Ellen and Jack O'Hare
May 5, 2018
James: We were SO lucky to be your neighbors! It has been such a pleasure to have you in our lives. You still make us smile! Wherever you are, we hope there is good fishing, great Scotch, and a sweet Rock 'n' Roll soundtrack.
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