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James Dylan McCaughan
1989 - 2018
James Dylan McCaughan
1989 - 2018
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1989
DIED
2018
James McCaughan Obituary
December 5, 1989 - January 10, 2018
Native of Santa Cruz
Friends and family will gather on February 10th, in Santa Cruz to say farewell to a loving son, trusted friend, and dedicated "Knight in Shining Armor", James McCaughan who passed away unexpectedly here last week. He was 28 years old. James attended Waldorf School through 8th grade, graduated from Santa Cruz High School Class of 2008, and attended Cabrillo College.
He was a talented surfer, belonging to the Santa Cruz High Surf Team, and continued to make friends in the water throughout his life. When his mother fell ill with cancer, James became her care giver, and was always concerned for the well being of those who were in distress.
James began working at Shadowbrook Restaurant for three years after high school, and then worked in the construction trade.
He was gifted in the field of Horticulture and enjoyed raising beautiful indoor and outdoor plants. James will always be remembered for his kind and caring disposition, and devotion to his mom and his friends.
James spent much of his youth, living at the Mount Madonna Center where his uncle was a teacher. James was an avid traveler, and at the age of 13, accompanied his father figure Dennie Van Tassel on a trip to India; volunteering assistance at an orphanage there. James and Dennie continued to travel on trips to Canada, England and Australia, which provided many fond memories that they enjoyed sharing.
He is survived by his daughter, Kailea Jamie McCaughan and her mother Megan. James also leaves his mother, Cate McCaughan, his beloved canine companion "Nikki", and a host of people who were fortunate to know him as a friend.
The memorial ceremony will held at the Viking Hall (240 Plymouth Street in Santa Cruz) from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm.
A Facebook GoFundMe account has been established in James' memory if you wish to contribute. You may also leave a thought or reflection with the family by visiting the Benito and Azzaro homepage.
View the online memorial for James Dylan McCaughan
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Joraine McKellar
February 9, 2018
What pleasure it was to have James as my neighbor and friend. He was an old soul with a lot of love to share. Catie, Kailea and Nikki are the loves of his life. James always had a smile to share and a story to tell. He will always be remembered for his kind heart and his dedication to his family & friends. My friend we will meet again.
Dale Layton
February 4, 2018
I will always remember James as a very caring, giving beautiful young man who had more potential than he ever knew. I know you are in a place of serenity. Bless you.
Radha Vignola
February 3, 2018
Our little Jamesie is gone, but I cherish the memories, dear Cate. I'll see you at the Memorial Service, with love for you. Radha
Sally Smith
January 29, 2018
So very, very sorry Cate. You are in our thoughts and prayers. James and the rest of your family members will always be with you in your heart and memories forever.
Suzie and Sally Smith
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Patty Benson
January 28, 2018
"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die" May God comfort and peace of wonderful memories support you.
Cate, Love you and miss you.
Patty Benson
January 28, 2018
Cate,
"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die" May God comfort and peace of wonderful memories support you.
Miss you and Love you
Susan Colvin
January 28, 2018
I pass by James, and he encourages me to keep trying. The young encourage the older! May the McGillicuddy family carry on. Strength to Catie, Kailea, Megan, Nikki and Lucille. I love you all very much. Auntie Shoobie
Danika Brunelli
January 28, 2018
I love you my king
John Jarrett
January 26, 2018
My heart is broken for James and his family. He was a good young man that was a true joy to be around. I pray that God will comfort his mom and embrace James in the Kingdom of Heaven.
January 25, 2018
Our condolences to the family. May God fulfill his promise of binding up the brokenhearted. Isa 61:1
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