James L. Bratton

1922 - 2023

James L. Bratton July 12, 1922 - October 14, 2023

On October 14, 2023, after 101 years of life, James Leroy (Jim) Bratton, left to explore the hunting and fishing grounds of heaven.

Jim was born in Gerber, California to Martin Luther Bratton (Luke) and Ursel Cate Bratton. A sister

joined the family three years later. Jim attended schools in Gerber, Weed and Klamath Falls, Oregon, graduating from Klamath Union High School in 1940. He attended Sacramento State for a brief time but returned to Klamath Falls to join the Navy. James honorably served on the U.S.S. Franklin aircraft carrier in the South Pacific during WWII as an Aviation Machinist Mate First Class USN. He survived the 30 Oct 1944 Kamikaze attack on the Franklin and flew combat missions as rear gunner.

Jim married Bernice Larson in Norman, Oklahoma on December 19, 1942. They were married 67 years before Bernice's passing in 2010. Together they raised their three girls Julie, Patty and Sally in Klamath Falls where Jim worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad's yard office. He hunted, fished, and volunteered at the Suburban Fire Department where he was named Fireman of the year. Jim was a lifelong member of the Klamath Falls Masonic Lodge. He watched his girls graduate from Klamath Union High School, leave home for college and "walked them down the aisle".

As empty nesters he and Bernice moved to San Jose as Jim accepted a job in the executive offices for the Southern Pacific railroad in San Francisco. During this time he commuted two hours a day, enjoyed outdoor activities and golfed several courses including Pebble Beach. In 1982 after 40 years of working for Southern Pacific railroad he retired and he and Bernice hit the road. They spent time in Hawaii and Australia as well as several cruises. In 1997 they moved to Ashland and enjoyed all southern Oregon had to offer and he golfed into his 90's.

Bernice passed in 2010 and he later sold his home and moved into the Rogue Valley Manor in Medford at age 95. A special thanks to the Care Suites staff who were dear friends and helped make each day special for him. Thank you to Asante Hospice for seeing that his last days were painless and filled with love. Thanks to the Veteran's Administration for all the years of helpful benefits.

Jim loved parties and had birthday parties at 90, 95, 100 and 101 celebrating his life with many friends, neighbors and dearly loved nieces and nephews. Jim felt blessed with his life thanks to his family, friends, caretakers and all who showed him love and respect.

Jim is survived by his three daughters; Julie (Troy) Reynolds, Talent, OR., Patricia McMahon, Bend, OR., Sally (Sandor) Vincze, Reno, NV., grandchildren; Teresa Reynolds, Jim (Cathy) Reynolds, Craig (Suzanne) Vincze, Christy (RC) Crocitto, Cara Mortensen, Rachel (Andrew) Price, great grandchildren; Kelsey (Colton) Gow, Kassandra (Cody) McHargue, James (Julia) Crocitto, Abriana Crocitto, Benjamin Vincze, Fletcher Price, Boden Price, Jett Mortensen, great great grandchildren; Eva & Pacen Gow, Easton & Bryar McHargue, and great-great grandson Casey Crocitto born Oct. 28, 2023. He is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins throughout the United States.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Lorraine and 23 year old great grandson Max Vincze.

Jim left a note that read "celebrate my life. I have had a great one and thanks to my family". A special military ceremony is being planned by the family at a later date. The ceremony will take place at the Eagle Point National Veterans Cemetery, date to be announced soon.

Memorial contributions are suggested to: The Max Vincze Foundation for young adult cancer research at www.maxvfound.org (maxvfound.org), mail to 4800 Turning Leaf Way, Reno, NV 89519; or Asante Hospice or a worthy cause of your choice. Litwiller-Simonsen Funeral Home in care of arrangements. www.litwillersimonsen.com