James W. McEwen

McEwen, James W.
of Peoria, Arizona passed away on Tuesday June 30, 2009 and has joined his parents and brothers in Heaven. Born June 28, 1938 in Camden, New Jersey, Jim lived his early years in that state with his parents Caroline McEwen and James Hillman. Jim enlisted in the United States Navy and served for four years from 1955 through 1959, honing his mechanical skills while working as a fireman in the boiler rooms of ships. Following his service in the Navy, Jim had a career as a police officer in Maple Shade, New Jersey, and volunteered as a fireman. Jim moved to Arizona in 1976 where he began a new career in plumbing. In 1993 he met his future wife, Lorretta Snow while they were both enjoying one of their favorite pastimes, country dancing. Jim and Lorretta soon moved in together, but did not tie the knot until May of 2004. The ceremony was held at their home in Peoria, where they lived until Jim's passing. Besides country music and dancing, Jim had a great sense of humor and loved to tell jokes; sometimes they were even good enough for mixed company! Jim was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, and is survived by his wife Lorretta Snow; his children Brandon, Jimmy, Bobby, David, Cheryl; his step-children Kathy, Kenny, Curtis, Earl; his eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A viewing will be held at the Heritage Funeral Chapel, 6830 West Thunderbird Road in Peoria, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM with a service at 6:00 PM on Monday July 6, 2009.