James Bear

James (Jim) Bear, a beloved friend and community member, passed away on July 17, 2025, at the ripe old age of 94. Born on February 18, 1931, in La Junta, Colorado, Jim was known for his humor, kindness, and public service.

Jim graduated from Modesto High School in 1948 and served as a surgical specialist at Fort Ord during the Korean War. After his military service, he earned his Bachelor's degree from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 1956, where he was a proud member of The Beta Beta Beta Society's Epsilon Pi chapter, an organization dedicated to life sciences, laying the foundation for a successful career.

Jim's professional life was one of public service. He worked with the Stanislaus County Health Department and later served as a building inspector for the City of Ceres. Beyond his professional contributions, Jim gave generously of his time and energy to his community. H was a longtime member of the Ceres Rotary Club, and helped fund college scholarships for local students. He was also a proud member of the American Legion.

Jim shared 46 joyful years of marriage with Neta (Wright) Bear, until her passing in 2003. Together, they brought warmth, laughter, and creativity into every part of their lives. Known for her exceptional cooking and his enthusiastic taste-testing, they hosted friends for many memorable meals. After retirement, Neta launched a catering business, which Jim wholeheartedly supported. The Bears also shared a playful love for their namesake, collecting teddy bears and even attending teddy bear conventions. Each Christmas, they decorated a 10-foot tree entirely with teddy bears, encircled by Jim's electric train - also packed with bears.

The couple's love of the arts, travel, and culture led them to frequent live theater performances, especially musicals, and to explore the world through Elderhostel trips with friends. A lifelong enthusiast of the Modesto Greek Food Festival, Jim never missed a year - not even during COVID, when he participated via drive-thru and continued the tradition.

As a veteran, Jim will be laid to rest alongside his loving wife, Neta, at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella.

In honoring Jim's final wish, we ask that you raise a glass - champagne or bourbon - and toast to a life well lived. As Jim would say, life is good "as long as you are having fun."