James Samuel McHugh

James Samuel McHugh June 29, 1936 - Jan. 15, 2009 James. S. McHugh died peacefully at his home in Los Gatos, after years of health setbacks related to a genetic heart disease. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Paula, son Harlan, daughter-in-law Lisa and four grandchildren, Megan, Justin, Lauren and Bryan. He also leaves his sister, Anne Crockett of New Mexico, brother Joe McHugh of Colorado, mother-in-law Armarella Hirshberg of Nevada, sister-in-law Judy Lynch of Oceanside and extended family. He was predeceased by his younger son, Lindsey, at age 16 in 1975, as well as his parents and his older sister, Patricia. Jim was born and raised in Jennings, Louisiana, the youngest of four children. As a young man and throughout college at Louisiana State University (Baton Rouge), he worked summers in the oil fields of Louisiana. During his four years at LSU, he played football and was President of his fraternity, Kappa Sigma and then as now, he was known for his lively humor and love of a good party. He graduated from LSU in 1958, with a BA in psychology. Throughout his life, he continued to be one of LSU's greatest fans and supporters. After several years in the auto business, Jim opened McHugh Lincoln-Mercury in Los Gatos in 1968. Working enthusiastically, not only in his own business, but also a representative for other auto dealers, he served as Chairman of the Silicon Valley Auto Dealer Association. He also served two terms as Chairman of the National Lincoln-Mercury Dealer Council, as well as Chairman of the Dealer Advertising Association (LMDA), where his creative talents were recognized by his winning two 'Clios' for radio advertising. In 1995 he retired and sold the business to his son Harlan. He also served as a member of the Board of Directors at La Rinconada Country Club, the American Heart Association & Kiwanis International. Additionally, Jim was a member and generous supporter of many other organizations. A renowned wine collector and connoisseur, Jim and his collection were featured in 'Wine Spectator' in 1990. He took great pleasure in sharing his love of wine, and was a member of many distinctive wine associations, among them a local group, called 'Vino Gatos.' Jim had a passion for travel, especially to France for the fine food and wines, and was proud of having traveled to every continent, except Antarctica. Gathering family and friends together to share his love of laughter, music, cooking & eating was his greatest pleasure. His broad smile and generous heart will be missed by all who knew him. A Memorial Mass will be held Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at 10:00 a.m., St. Mary's Catholic Church, 219 Bean Avenue, Los Gatos. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a charitable donation in Jim's memory might consider one of the following charities: Hospice of the Valley, hospicevalley.org; American Heart Association, 1 Almaden Blvd., #500, San Jose 95113; or Hospice of the Valley, 4850 Union Avenue, San Jose, CA 95124.