JAMES WATTE

1944 - 2025

JAMES ASHFORD

WATTE

Jan. 18, 1944 – June 10, 2025

James Ashford Watte passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025. Jim was born to Oscar and Margery Watte on January 18, 1944. He was the oldest of five raised on the family ranch in Calipatria graduating from Calipatria High School in 1962. He continued his education at Imperial Valley College where he played football. Jim worked in various grocery retail jobs through high school and college rising to management at a very young age. Jim was manager of Mayfair markets in San Diego and Imperial Counties. He began farming in the 70's eventually forming the partnership, Watte and Watte Farms, with his mother, taking over the family ranch following her passing. Jim farmed for more than 50 years. In recent years, he prepared to pass the torch to his son, Jay, by managing the ranch with him.

Jim had many passions in his life including family, his beloved standard poodles, classic cars and auto racing. As a young adult, Jim was a spirited competitor on the Imperial County Fairgrounds racetrack. His children and friends all knew not to call or visit if a televised race was in progress. Jim was also known for his ever-revolving hobbies which bounced from golf, horses, trap shooting, RC cars and planes, model trains, restoring old cars, leather and woodworking.

Jim leaves behind a loving family including his wife, Patricia, and children, Cher Watte, Shelly Domingos (Tony), Jay Watte (Robyn), stepson, Bryan Fanning (Robin), and stepdaughter, Connie Sharp (Mike). He is also survived by grandchildren, Austin, Trevor and Ryan Domingos, Andrew and Matthew Angulo, Louise, George and Madeline Watte, step-grandchildren, Chance Sharp (Alexis), Cameron Sharp (Macy), Keiley Bell (Jarrett), as well as siblings, Don Watte (Chris), Steve Watte (Myra), Connie McCoy (Paul), numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Marge (Ashford) Watte, and brother, Mike Watte.

A celebration of life will occur at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the California Midwinter Fair Heritage Foundation.