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James Hanrahan Obituary
James Patrick "Jim" Hanrahan, 70, passed away on June 2, 2024, in Redding, California. He was born on November 30, 1953, in Ventura, California and grew up in Ojai, California, the hometown that he loved so much.
Jim dedicated 35 years of his life to the US Forest Service, specializing in fire management. He also served as a reserve deputy sheriff , EMT and volunteer fire chief. He was a committed and passionate individual who left a lasting impact on his community and the environment.
Outside of his career, Jim enjoyed his garden, beach time, watching Western movies, listening to Rat Pack music, hosting parties, camping, and cherishing moments with his family and friends. His love for nature and his passion to help others were evident in all his pursuits.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Mary T. Hanrahan, and his daughter, Stephanie P. Hanrahan, whom he loved and was so very proud of. He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Jayne Hanrahan, his father, William W. Hanrahan, and his brother, Terry J. Hanrahan and by his father-in-law Joseph A. Souza and his most favorite mother-in-law Emily J. Souza.
No services are planned, honoring Jim's wishes. Allen and Dahl Funeral Home in Redding, California, is assisting the family with the arrangements. Donations in Jim's memory can be made at Haven Humane Society, P.O. Box 992202, Redding, CA 96099-2202. He loved every pet he ever owned from Tippy Top and Gracie to Juneau and Rosabelle. A celebration of life for Jim will be held in his beloved back yard sometime later this year.
Jim Hanrahan will be dearly missed by his beloved Mary and Stephanie and by all who knew him, but his legacy of hard work, dedication, and embrace of life will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Hanrahan
Timoyhy Diaz
January 5, 2025
I remember when Jim first got the prevention job on Orleans Rd. He was hired by my Uncle who already knew him from So Cal. We camped in Orleans campground for several weeks fishing for steelies and even sturgeon. He would always stop by our campsite and visit as he was a good friend of the family, heck he very young. He use to have this old Blue Chevy Malibu with mag tires, boy it really went and we were always riding in it. The things you remember as a kid. He was just a kid himself. Time goes by so fast, so fast.
Anne McInerney
June 30, 2024
Anne McInerney
June 30, 2024
Anne McInerney
June 30, 2024
Anne McInerney
June 30, 2024
I met Jim and Mary when I was 14 at Wilsonia Lodge in Kings Canyon Nat´l Park and instantly loved them both. They have been a part of my life for 46 years. I will treasure all the laughs and stories Jim had!
Jeff Prevey
June 7, 2024
I remember Jim from the Sierraville RD when I was the station foreman at Frenchman Lake work center. We would work together often on mutual aid assignments and always thought the best of him. He was a true Forest Service professional. I am so sorry for your loss.
Bob Klinoff
June 7, 2024
I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. There are few people in this world that help to drive us all forward. Jim was one of those. I met him through the Wildland Safety Officer's Workshop, a very valuable experince for me. He was always open, friendly and made me feel welcome. The entire safety community will be lesser for his absence.
Brad Joos
June 6, 2024
Mary,
Kim and I are so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. We have such great memories of you and Jim when we all lived in Sierra Valley. Jim was always the life of the party with his comical "trip" as he always did when he walked on to the stage. He was they type of Forest Ranger, that every employee should be. He became a vital part of every community he worked in. One memory I can still vividly see, is when we are at a training exercise with all the VFDs of the valley. Jim was in charge of igniting the old Yuba Pass ski "lodge", that we would take turns extinguishing. Well, on the third scenario, he was having trouble getting it to burn (mind you we are in 4 feet snow), he got it going with a little gas that happened to get on his turnouts. He quickly dove into the snow bank. I thought it was one of his pranks that he always did. It wasn't one. After he was extinguish with no harm, we all had a good laugh. Jim always made us smile.
God bless you Mary and Stephaine
Brad and Kim Joos
Bill Bondshu
June 6, 2024
On behalf of the CWCG Risk Management Committee, we have no words to express to you our sadness at the loss of Jim. The world is a lesser place without him. But we know he is with God and the Angels and we know even heaven is improved by his presence there. We know you too are sure of this and yet this knowledge can´t diminish his loss and your grief. With abiding respect and affection. Rest in peace, Chief.
Craig Courtemanche
June 6, 2024
Mary & Stephanie~ We are so sorry for the loss of Jim. He was a great friend since 1977 when we both worked on the Sequoia, Hume Lake District. We all enjoyed so many laughable moments, silly frolicking, Freeport festas and many wildland fires we battled together. Jim's quick wit and sense of humor can never be replaced, and all who knew Jim understand. When Stephanie was born she was, and always will be his pride and joy. You will be missed greatly my friend. RIP Craig & Jennie Courtemanche"
Fred Roach
June 6, 2024
Thank you, Jim, for being a friend and helping with all the logistics with the Division Chiefs. You will be missed.
Nancy (Norcross) Herron
June 5, 2024
Nancy (Norcross) Herron
June 5, 2024
Nancy (Norcross) Herron
June 5, 2024
1970 - I was a senior and Jim was a sophomore at Nordhoff. I had a crush on his older brother, Terry, who graduated a couple years earlier. Someone pointed Jim out to me while I was walking in the area between the outdoor eating area at the school and the gym. They had planted some little trees all around that area and while I was looking at Jim with my head turned, I wasn't looking ahead and crashed into one of the little trees. Jim grinned and I was embarrassed. I ended up dating Terry for over two years after that. Jim has been like a brother to me since Terry passed away in 1972. He always made me laugh with his sarcasm. And he made a mean gin and tonic when I visited him and Mary. I will miss that crazy guy so much. RIP Little bro.
Carole Sue
June 5, 2024
My memories and thoughts will always stay real in my heart Jim. You were the best ..... RIP my dear friend
Carole Sue
Margie Forster
June 5, 2024
Having the Hanrahan's in Sierraville as part of our community and family were some of the best childhood memories I have. I am thankful to have had Jim as a mentor, comic relief and dear family friend. My heart goes out to you Mary and Stephanie. Sending so much love your way. He´s in heaven with dad now, making big plans!
Tom and Marla McCaffrey
June 5, 2024
Jokes at work...all the laughter. A special guy..
Cathy Mays
June 5, 2024
I think the first time I met Jim was at the Elks Club, but my favorite memories are of parties at the house and the big group dinners! Jim, you will surely be missed. Love you!
Monica Souza
June 5, 2024
Monica Souza
June 5, 2024
Monica Souza
June 5, 2024
My sister Mary loved and honored Jim until the day he died. Besides her, their daughter Stephanie was the best thing that ever happended to him. My they only remember the laughter and good time - when Jim was at his best.
Terri Decker
June 4, 2024
Forest Service Prevention
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