James Patrick Walsh

James Patrick Walsh Passed away peacefully March 12, 2009 at age 84. Son of an Irish immigrant, Jim was born in Linwood, Pennsylvania. He attended Archmere Academy in Wilmington, Delaware and went on to Pennsylvania Military College in Chester before enlisting in the Navy shortly after his 18th birthday. Jim served as a Navy seaman from 1943-1946 with overseas postings in Shanghai and Rio de Janeiro. He was in Rio with the Navy's dirigible fleet when WWII ended. Jim returned to PMC to complete his Science Degree and at his graduation prom his engagement to Irene Pearl, of Bolton, England was announced. Jim and Irene married in September of 1949 and subsequently moved to Elgin, Illinois where he took a lab research job with Pure Oil. Jim started a 30-year career with IBM as a chemical engineer in 1957 in Kingston, NY and subsequently relocated to join the South San Jose IBM facility in 1962. Jim was able to enjoy 22 years of retirement with Irene, revolving around their loving family and visits to England, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Survived by his wife of 60 years, Irene; brother, Thomas Walsh of Pennsylvania; daughters, Kathleen Robb, Patricia Divis and son, Michael, all of San Jose. Son-in-laws Paul Divis and Tim Robb and loving "Pop-Pop" to five grandchildren, Shannon and Kyle Robb; Erin, Anna and James Divis. Nephews Tom, Dennis and Terry Walsh. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested a donation be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, 875 North Randolph Street, Suite 225, Arlington, VA 22203. A Memorial Mass will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in San Jose, Friday, March 27 at 11 a.m. A reception will follow at The Terrace at Willow Glen 2125 Canoas Garden Avenue, San Jose.