James Monte Hill

March 15, 1943 - May 28, 2022 I'm writing this message about my BEST FRIEND, my PARTNER and the LOVE of my LIFE--JIM HILL. Jim was born in Detroit, Michigan to Monte and Martha Hill (Canadians) who came to California and settled in North Torrance. (He was an only child). Jim attended North Torrance High School until 1960 and then entered El Camino College for two years. Before graduating from Long Beach State, he started work at TRW, which became his chosen career for 32 years. In 1997/8 El Camino College celebrated 50 years as a college and as a tribute they chose 50 "Distinguished Alumni"--and "James Hill" became one of the original "50 D.A's." In 1991, Jim met Pam Barrett at a sailing meeting and when we spotted each other, it was "love at first sight." We were inseparable for 31 years after that encounter. Along with Pam's father, we sailed in competition races from Newport Beach to Ensenada and Santa Barbara to King Harbor on an Islander 36 sail boat. We also rented boats in the Caribbean, Tahiti, and British Virgin Islands. For about 15 years we enjoyed sailing! Jim and Roger loved golf. Jim was part of a "special" foursome--the GEEZERS--they met every Wednesday to golf and have lunch--Ron, Dave, and Cleve! Jim loved these guys! Next, a major part of Jim and Pam's life was Volunteering! It started with the City of Torrance working at the Armstrong/Nakano Theatres. For the Rose Float Association, we were on the Board and Float Riders for "3" City Floats. We then went to the Norris Theatre-PVPA--where we have been on the Board of Trustees and ushers for over 20 years. We were "Sweethearts" of the Valentine Ball/Gala in 2011 for the Norris, at Terranea. We were also honored in November 2019 by the P.V. Chamber of Commerce at Terranea as CITIZENS of the YEAR for our volunteer work. After being engaged for 23 years, on our 70th Birthday's (same year), in 2013--we got married on the Princess Cruise ship in San Pedro. Becoming a WIFE to JIM was the happiest event of my life! We had "our" daughter Jennifer Silverstein, Paul Silverstein, and the two grand daughters--Chloe and Abby--representing us at the wedding along with friends. Jim was a "true" loving Grandpa to Chloe and Abby --he loved them to the "MOON and BACK! I had "9" years of a WONDERFUL marriage to a true "gentleman"-kind, sweet and generous! I really miss him BUT he will miss all of you also! His final words were "Say Bye to EVERYONE" and to me he would say--"YES, DEAR"--I love you!! Pam Barrett-Hill