James L. "Jim" Agius Sr.

Native Petaluman and business owner, James L. Agius, Sr., passed away at his home on, Friday, April 30, 2010 at the age of 85. Born in Petaluma and educated at St. Vincent schools, Jim proudly served his country during World War II as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard in the Pacific Theatre. He and his wife, "Topsy" along with his brother Frank and sister in law, "Chick" owned and operated Agius Bar & Grocery for 38 years, where a cigar box was the original cash register and wonderful customers made the small store the social center of the Wilmar District for decades. Jim also helped found and served as Fire Chief of Wilmar Volunteer Fire Department. After his retirement, Jim was a fixture at his son's store, Petaluma Market, where he was known as "The Boss", wielding his feather duster while enjoying greeting and visiting with customers every morning. His hobbies included raising canaries, playing golf, and making his famous vinegar. His greatest joys in life were his Catholic Faith and being with his friends and family. Jim was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Parish and a longtime member of the Nicasio Parlor #183 NSGW. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Estelle M. "Topsy" Agius of Petaluma. Adored father of James L. Agius, Jr. and his wife, Maureen of Santa Rosa and Cynthia Agius Reynolds and her husband, Richard of Petaluma. Cherished grandfather of Jamie (Dean) Smith, Mary Reynolds, Margaret Reynolds, John (Kinyatta) Reynolds, Mark Reynolds, James Agius III and Dominic Agius. Loving great grandfather of Owen, Emma, Camille and Jada. Jim is survived by his brother, Tom Agius and sister, Ruth Agius both of Petaluma; and was preceded in death by his siblings, Angela Agius, John Agius, Rev. Joseph Agius, Angelo Agius, Jr., Marguerite Agius, Mary Barnes and Frank Agius. Dear brother in law of Shirley and Tom Dingwall of Lakeport. Also survived by several nieces and nephews; his beloved caregiver, Mary Tukana. Special thanks to his Hospice nurse; Cynthia Clarkson, and to each Hospice nurse who cared for Jim during his illness. A Visitation will be on Tuesday, May 4, 2010 from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. with the Vigil Service at 7:00 p.m. at the PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, 850 Keokuk St., Petaluma, CA. Family and friends are also invited to meet on Wednesday, May 5, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at the mortuary, thence to St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 35 Liberty St., Petaluma, where a Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Interment, Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Petaluma, CA. The family prefers memorials be made to Hospice of Petaluma, Petaluma Valley Hospital Foundation or to St. Vincent de Paul Church.