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BORN
1917
DIED
2012
James Pappas Obituary
Sept. 17, 1917 - Dec. 28, 2012
James Pappas, longtime owner of Stardust Jersey Farms of Modesto, died Friday, Dec. 28, after a short illness.
Pappas, 95, was well known in the area's dairy community for his prowess as a breeder of registered Jersey cattle. He also was active for many years as a judge on the cattle show circuit, and as a mentor of young dairymen and dairywomen.
With his wife, Georgia, who predeceased him in 2006, he won the Master Breeder's Award from the American Jersey Cattle Assn. in 1976.
Pappas' Stardust Jersey Farms bloodline found its way into important herds all over the U.S. and elsewhere, including that of the Queen of England.
He was a member of the American Jersey Cattle Assn., the Holstein Friesian Assn., the Stanislaus Holstein Club and many more. A Master Breeder of the California Purebred Cattle Assn. and the California Jersey Cattle Club, he also was an honorary member of the Cal Poly Los Lecheros Dairy Club, and a member of the board of directors of the California Jersey Cattle Club, the California Holstein Assn. and the East West Dairyman's Assn.
Though he retired from the world of active dairy production more than 30 years ago, Pappas, a life-long enthusiast of Big Band music, continued to be active in the world of agriculture, converting his dairy, named for the song, "Stardust," into almond production.
He is survived by five children: James Pappas, Laura Thompson, Marilyn Taylor, Dorothy Davis and Robert Pappas; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
A viewing will be held Thursday, Jan. 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Salas Bros. Mortuary in Modesto.
Funeral services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 4, at Salas Bros. Mortuary. For additional information, call Salas Bros. Mortuary, (209) 523-5646.
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Memories and Condolences
for James Pappas
George & Shirley Barlass
January 4, 2013
Our deepest sympathy to the Pappas family. We have many fond memories of Jim & Georgia, having known them for many years through the Jersey cattle business. Jim was a true legend in the Jersey world. We had the pleasure of spending some time at their home a few years ago which was truly a delight. We always enjoyed their company and visits on the phone--our last visit via the phone was on Dec. 26th just after he returned home from the hospital. Again, our sympathy. George & Shirley Barlass, Wisconsin
Karla Deaver
January 4, 2013
My husband and his family knew the Pappas family well. I was fortunate enought to meet Jimmy at the California State Fair. He was a kind, considerate gentleman who was extremely complimentary to me about my showmanship in the Jersey open show. My father-in-law Jim Deaver respected him deeply, as do all the Deavers. A great man who will be missed!
Denise Soares
January 4, 2013
Thinking of you Marilyn at this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you!!
Tim Baumgartner
January 4, 2013
Although I only had the great pleasure to be introduced to him once and spend moments with him as he talked about his days showing cattle; his passion for the Jersey cow rang loud and clear. His appreciation for the finer things in life evident and his values - priceless. May he rest in peace and cherish his time once again with his loving wife, Georgia in heaven.
George Morasci
January 4, 2013
Mr. Pappas was not only a fine gentleman but was a great ambassador to the dairy industry. He and Georgia were awesome friends of my family. With out a doubt a true legend will be missed. Our thoughts & prayers are with all who loved "Pappas"!!!
Olive (Machado) & Bill August
January 3, 2013
Jimmy & your siblings. Our deepest sympathy to all the family. May God bless all of you and your families with the courage & strength that all of you may need to the loss of a great man & neighbor. I remember Jimmy & Marilyn when you were kids across the street.
Randy,Lisa Ramont
January 3, 2013
Our condolences to the Pappas Family . To Marilyn ,Bob,Cathy,Lee, Makayla, and Kourtney our love and sympathies go out to you in this difficult time
Jim at the 2007 CA State Fair with the Cal Poly Jerseys.
Stan Henderson
January 3, 2013
James Pappas, a very special Cal Poly alumni.
Gene Starkey
January 3, 2013
Many thanks to Jimmy and his family for his many years of service to the dairy industry and to Cal Poly University. You will be greatly missed.
My favorite Cal Poly graduate, very proud of the Cal Poly Jerseys at the 2007 State Fair.
Stan Henderson
January 3, 2013
Denise Soares
January 2, 2013
Our deepest sympathy for Marilyn and Bob and family. I only new Marilyn's Father for a short time but in that time he seemed like a wonderful man. He will be deeply missed by all.
Sincerely, Stan and Denise Soares
Elizabeth (Sissy) Laffranchini
January 2, 2013
Mr. Jim Pappas will be in my memories as a kind, caring and sweet man. He was my judge in 4-H dairy classes (where we first met) and always spoke to me with kindness and respect. He amazed me with his keen memory and touched at my heart with his interest in later years of me and how life was treating me. He would offer words of encouragement always making me feel that the climb would be worth the struggle. He gave me hope and I will deeply miss him.
Russell Gammon
January 1, 2013
Jim was indeed one of my great life mentors and a cherished friend. He and Georgia will go down in history as being two of the world's most successful Jersey breeders ever. I can honestly say that it was a great thrill, privilege and blessing to know them-saw them all too infrequently! Loved Jim's letters and cards and the material on Jerseys or some of Georgia's writings he sent my way! God bless and comfort the extended Pappas family!
December 31, 2012
I did not know Jim, but I do know Dorothy and I send my condolences to you and your family. I wish I could be with you at this time. Much love..Gail
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