James Whittier Daum

James Whittier Daum obituary, Downey, CA

James Whittier Daum

James Daum Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 26, 2022.
James Whittier Daum, 87, of Downey, California, passed away, Friday, August 26, 2022 after a brief hospital stay with family at his side.

James was born May 13, 1935, in Twin Falls, Idaho to Robert and Dorothy (Daum) Honderich. Graduated from Twin Falls High School in 1953 and started college at the University of Washington. James suspended his studies and took employment at Boeing Airplane (Seattle) as an assembler, driver and eventually a design draftsman. On May 17, 1956, he married Shirley Carter in Twin Falls, Idaho. The couple moved to California in 1957, where James settled into a 37-year career as a Mechanical Engineer with Barksdale Valve Company while raising two children.

Growing up, James enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He continued these traditions with his friends and family camping in the Eastern Sierra and various National Parks. As Scout Master to Boy Scout Troop 893 in Downey, James cherished his time with his son and other scouts backpacking the John Muir Trail and other scouting adventures. James also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and playing chess.

James is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Shirley Daum. Two married children: Michael (Karen) Daum and Cheryl (Edward) Wallace. Two grandchildren: Nicholas (Steffany) Daum and Andrea Daum, all of California. Brothers: Robert Daum, of Utah and Richard Daum, of North Carolina along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Dorothy and two brothers William Daum and John Daum.

A private celebration of life will be held for immediate family. Memorial donations may be sent to the American Humane.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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1 Entry

Richard (Dick) Daum

October 4, 2022

Jim, as an older brother, was a good example for me of working hard, doing one's best and not complaining. That was helpful to me, as a younger brother. His example motivated me to develop a work ethic of working hard, not complaining and having integrity. Dick Daum

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