Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

James W. Lance

About

University of Southern California

James Lance Obituary

James W. Lance, 65, of Palm Desert, beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother, died at his home on February 24, 2008. Jim was born in Ohio, and moved to Phoenix at a young age. In his youth, he raced sprint cars and won a scholarship to play baseball for USC. An engineer by training, Jim could fix or build anything. He worked for GE for 23 years at various facilities including Tucson, Phoenix, LA, and Seattle rising to become Manager of Operations for SE Asia where he was based in Singapore. After GE, Jim started in the manufacture of optical discs at the Pioneer facility in Carson, CA, as Manager of Engineering, eventually becoming Executive Vice President. He subsequently worked for Cinram Manufacturing running the Anaheim CD/DVD facility and then the Commerce facility. Jim loved his vacations in Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. His dream of retiring to play golf in the desert was realized last year as was his wish to travel and cruise Europe. He also toured the Pacific Northwest, Montana, and Arizona. He is survived by his wife, Jennith; daughter Cheryl, (husband John Fields); sons, Jim and Sean; grandchildren Brianna, Courtney, and Taylor; and his brother, Curt (wife Shirley and niece Tara). His greatest joy was playing golf with his grandson, Taylor or son Sean. Smart, funny, brave, steadfast and loyal, Jim will always be loved and remembered. A private remembrance will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Gilda's Club Desert Cities or the American Cancer Society.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Desert Sun from Mar. 1 to Mar. 5, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for James Lance

Sponsored by anonymous.

59 Entries

sean lance

March 2, 2013

Still loving and missing you dad

James Lance

January 2, 2011

Hi Dad, I am so sorry I haven't written in here earlier But Every time I try I can never see the keys through My tears! I miss You Soo much dad!! I still need you here!! I've got nobody left to talk to anymore! I never really said Thank you for teaching me all the things that you taught me! Not a day went by that I didn't learn something from you! And I miss that so much!
Sundays Aren't the same anymore! The only thing I ever looked forward to is not here anymore! This is the one thing You didn't prepare me for and I don't know how to get past it or even how to feel anything anymore!
The holidays just passed (thank god) Its hard to have joy in your heart when it feels like there isn't one there anymore!
I Just need you to know that I think of you all the time and I still need you! I miss you And Love you So Very Much!

Sean Lance

June 9, 2010

I LOVE YOU DAD.... I still just sit here sometimes looking at all of our pictures and then I come here and look at that picture posted and just sit. I miss you and always will love you so much. I hope and pray that I am half the man you were, and I hope I am as good a father to my little girl as you were to me.

Curt Lance

August 8, 2008

Just a note to let Jim know that I think of him every day! I know he at least in a place free from the pain and misery associated with his illness.
I thank Jennith openly and to the almighty for her support of Jim. I know she has had a difficult time, coping with Jim's loss and her personal lonliness.
I know that Jim would want only the best for her, as do we all.
I miss you, and I love you, bro......

Curt Lance

June 7, 2008

When Jim & Jennith visited us last October, they had recently returned from their European odyssey, and it was great hearing about the places they saw, many of which were from afar, or from a cab, or bus window, as Jim was unable to stand in lines or travel any distances of consequence.
Yet you could sense the exhilaration he experienced at each sighting, and the joy of seeing these fascinating and historical places with Jennith at his side....
He even talked about paying a cover charge to visit the Casino in Monte Carlo.....
He spoke about the possibility of returning for another trip once he got better.....
In those few days, I understood the intensity with which he had undertaken his life, and his desire to continue it with Jenith, although it was not to be.
He called me when he was entering Hospice care and told me he was at peace with his decision, and while I sensed the sadness that leaving this world, leaving Jennith, and leaving all of us who loved him brought to him, it was so evident he had fought as long and as hard as he could, and there was the submission that comes from knowing you have been defeated, at least physically.
If you participated in athletics of any kind, you know when you lost, but particularly in team sports, you can guage your effort in a losing cause......
the Japanese acknowledge in sword fighting (Kendo) that even if you die in the fight, you can win the duel with your mind....
I take comfort in knowing Jim won the battle in his mind and in his heart, and it was only his body that was defeated.
He sent me a photo Jenith had taken of the two of us at Firehole Falls in Yellowstone park. It sits on my dresser in our bedroom, and I see it every day, either in the morning when I am getting dressed or at night before I go to bed.
I am ever reminded of those moments we shared in life, in family, and in each other....

Curt Lance

Vonnie + Alan

May 18, 2008

Dearest Jennith
We were so sad and devastated to hear about Jim.

He was so vividly alive and larger than life - all contained in a big, reassuringly solid "good ole boy" in the very best sense of the word . His enveloping bear hugs were just a treat. You absolutely knew that he would be there for you, with all cylinders firing, if you needed him. Alan and I will so miss his incredibly dry and laconic sense of humour - his deep gravelly voice with the Texas
twang and his great roaring HAW! when he found something funny.

Who could forget his first words on meeting me (your sister) - "Oh my gawd, there's TWO of them!"

He was comfortable in his own skin, comfortable to be with, and genuinely delighted when anyone around him did well.
Alan will always remember the great times he and Jim had on the golf course - he put the fun back in golfing for Alan - his easy-going, "whatever works for you" , no stress game was a revelation. I suspect that a good game of golf will be never be the same for Alan. Jim has set the partner bar to an all-time high.

Jim enjoyed his life to the full - caution be damned - and he lived his life full-out, all systems go.
We feel so lucky to have known Jim and were looking forward to spending lots more time
with him - but that was not to be.

So now, whenever I see or smell a beautiful rose, it will always bring back Jim for me - his ability to grow the most amazing blooms and his delight in their beauty speaks volumes about the guy.

We know (because he told Alan) that he deeply cherished you, sweetie, and was always so grateful for your care and love for him.

Think how lucky you both were - two original, smart, funny and strong people, and you found and loved and supported that in each other. That's a life memory that you will always have.
Your loving
sister and bro-in-law.
Vonnie + Alan

Curt Lance

March 26, 2008

With the passing of my brother, I find comfort in reviewing this guest book and seeing the many friends, business associates, family, co-workers, and many senior executives with whom he worked.
His career spanned General Electric Apparatus Service, MCA - Discovision, Pioneer Video, and CinRan.
From a winder with GE in Phoenix, Arizona, Jim literally traveled the globe in his business dealings.
As a person, he touched many lives, and based on the signings in this book, he was respected for his business acumen, and liked for his straightforward approach to management. He was tough, but fair, and always represented his employees fairly.
In looking through the book, I am reminded of what our father taught us, as we were growing up.... He used to say that you have two things in this life, your name and your word. If you keep your word in all you do, your name will be held in regard..... I believe both of us took his words to heart and we both have conducted our business affairs in the same way.
I most remember his personal associations at work and many of those people remained friends to this day. To many to name, but all rembered fondly.
Our family has always been close, although, we were not often together. We spoke reasonably often, but we had a sense when there was a problem in the family.
I can say that when Jim and I had our heart attacks only a month and half apart, we both instinctively knew that there was something wrong with the other. From that time on, we spoke often, and I did ride the emotional rollercoaster that cancer brings to all, albeit not on a daily basis and not to the degree of experience that Jim and Jenith went through.
I can say that his tenor and tone were always high and upbeat, and he spoke often of the care and love he received from Jenith.
I also remember when my daughter, Tara, was getting married in Bozeman, Shirley and I, Jim and Jenith went to lunch together, and Jim told us, like a kid in a candy store, that he and Jenith had gotten married and they shared a wedding photo with us...
Suffice it to say, for those who knew him, Jim, despite his personal committment to his relationships, did not have the best of luck, except to say, that he finally got it right, and he finally pulled the brass ring from the carousel, when he got Jenith.
Shirley and I will be eternally grateful to her for the great love and care she showed Jim, and I have a fair inkling of the things she has gone throught over the past three years.
We love you Jenith, and so value the things you did for Jim, and the great love he felt for you.

Curt and Shirley Lance

Takeo Sakai

March 23, 2008

I felt the deepest sorrow to hear that Jim Lance have passed away.
I have worked with him at Pioneer Video Manufacturing at Carson LA from 1984 to 1993. It was my best time in my life. I have a lot of memory with him.
Please accept my sincere sympathy.

Dave Rubenstein

March 17, 2008

We were very fortunate to have had Jim as part of our Cinram family for nearly a decade. During that time, we go to know him as a strong and dedicated lieutenant who was honest, driven and hard-working. He was an exceptional teacher, manager and mentor that looked out for his people – simply put; he was a fine human being. Jennith, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during these difficult times. On behalf of the Cinram family, please accept our deepest condolences for your loss.

Sincerely,

Gina Rendar

March 14, 2008

Jennith and family,

I am so sorry to hear about Jim. He was truly an amazing and kind man. Over the years, I had the honor to not only work with him but grow to know him as a friend. He has been a tremendous roll model to me. He has by far, been one of the kindest, sincerest and most dignified gentlemen I have had the pleasure to get to know. I know how endearingly he always talked of you, his children and grand children and I know how close you all were. My heart goes out to all of you and you are all in my prayers. Jim was not only a man, but he was a blessing here on earth. Clearly, the loss of Jim will always be felt, but in place of sadness I relish in the great blessing and joy to have met him and to have had him touch my life.

With sincerest sympathy,

Henry Nishiyama

March 14, 2008

I am writing to extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family at this very difficult time. I worked with Jim at Pioneer Laser Disc factory at Carson, CA from 1982 to 1987.
It was more than 20 years ago but I still remember him very well. He was always active, positive and taking initiative. Please accept my sincere sympathy.

Teruo Tohma

March 11, 2008

Dear Mrs. Jennith von Heimolt,

I am so sorry to hear that Mr. Jim Lance, my old friend at PVM. Olease accept my deepest simpathy.

Teruo(Ted) Tohma(Japan)

Dave Goldstein

March 11, 2008

Dear Jennith,
Your loss is in so many ways a loss to all of us. Judy and I recall the many times we were able to spend together and how they were brightened by Jim's wit and wisdom. He was a wonderful and considerate sounding board for me when I was over my head in indecision and his guidance and shared love of our medium were of incalculable value. When you were with us, it was just as much hand in glove for the life and times we were sharing. May all the wonderful memories be a source of strength to you and Jim's family and let you smile in fond remembrance. Judy shares with you the loss, the good memories and our deepest sympathy.
Fondly,
Dave

David Yabe

March 9, 2008

Dear Mrs. Jennith Von Helmolt
The news has been brought to me from Mr. Ken Kai.
I am very much astonished at the news and cannot help feeling very sorry for you and your family.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
I know how you feel when you lost your beloved one.
I am remembering so many things when I look back the days when I had spent with Jim and you at PVM, a lot of good memories, even in the most hardest times for PVM in those days, came to my mind as of yesterday's.
Again, I feel very sorry to hear the news and am also ask you to accept my heartfelt condolences.
My deepest sympathy to the family.

Sean Lance

March 9, 2008

My Dad,
I will never forget the baseball games and soccer games, where even though he wasn't the coach, you could always hear him above the coach. I must say that dad was the best coach I had. There are so many things I could write on here but it wouldn't even start to show how much I love him and how much he did for me. I always loved a good game of golf with him and I never could beat him, but that is what happens when you learn from a great golfer. I still remember when we went to mexico and I had a drive of 300 and something and we couldn't find the ball. There it was sitting in front of the green and i never heard the end of that shot. Before every golf game I heard "don't even think about hitting the ball like that ever again." I could ramble on forever about all the things my dad did for me and taught me but I will never be able to put into words how much i love him and how much I am going to miss him. I love you so much dad and I always will.

Bob Drew

March 8, 2008

Jenneth:

It was Jim's very good fortune
to have you in his life. I have no
doubt that he told you that many
many times--and meant it every
single time. My thoughts are with
you.

March 8, 2008

Jennith,
We think of you constantly and share your loss. We are very happy that we were able to spend a week with you and Jim recently. He was truly a fighter to have been such a gracious host so near the end. You were a great caregiver for Jim and I know he appreciated everything you did and how much you cared. Please look after yourself and let us know if there is anything we can do.
Love, Louise and Boris

Lynda and Don Brown

March 8, 2008

Jennith,

There are no words to describe my admiration and caring for Jim. His strong character, "rough around the edges" big heart, and positive outlook on all possibilities in life were a joy to be around during my working years with him. Although it was only a short time, it was my most treasured work time because of him and his leadership. His presence will always be in my life.

Take care and know you are in our thoughts.

Ken Kai

March 7, 2008

I am sorry to hear that our old friend Jim has passes away.

He helped us so much in the early days of LaserDisc business at Pioneer. He was always there whenever we needed a good advice with his so straightforward opinion.

Our deepest sympathy to the family.

With our sincere respect,

Ken Kai

Francoise Rhodes

March 6, 2008

Dear Jennith,
I'll never forget how excited Jack and I were to see younger people (meaning you and Jim) move into Chaparral CC. The excitement you both had about living in the desert, learning to play golf and making new friends (while sharing this new life with old friends) touched us. Jim will forever be in our hearts and thoughts, and you Jennith, are in our hearts, thoughts and a dear friend.
Francoise & Jack

Terence Oyape

March 6, 2008

I'm so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Jim was a unique man that made his own path in this world. I was honored and lucky to have him as a mentor in my earlier career. My deepest sympathy goes out to Jim's family.

Joey Dela Cruz

March 6, 2008

Our Hearts Go Out to You.
At times like this, words cannot say the things we'd like them to, but may it be a help to know our thoughts and prayers are there with you. With Sympathy, May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Suzy Casey

March 6, 2008

Dear Jennith and Jim's Family, I am saddened by the news that Jim's brave fight has ended. He won. Our loss. Please let me know if there is anything we can do.
Tom and Suzy Casey

Cheryl Fields

March 6, 2008

My Dad was a wonderful man! He will always have a very special place in my heart.
Growing up Dad would always share stories (I'm in my 40's and I was still hearing stories) of the many of you that he worked with, he loved all of his jobs and succeeded in each and every one because of his hard work, dedication and all of his extaordinary co-workers/friends. I thank you for those memories!
Dad was so proud of his Grandchildren he would brag relentlessly. We will always remember and laugh the first time Dad/Grandpa learned how to text message his grandchildren. We all have special memories that will live on forever!
I thank Jennith for taking special care of my dad, he was so thankful to have someone so special in his life.
Dad I will love you forever and always!!
Cheryl

Jan Hudlin

March 6, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. Jim was one of the nicest people I've ever known with an outstanding sense of humor. He was always supportive and a great inspiration to me when I started my career, and I have wonderful memories of him.

Neeru Jain

March 6, 2008

Hi Jennith,

I am very sorry to hear about Jim's passing away. I worked with him in Anahiem facility and came to your Anaiem house one time and met you when I was remodeling my house and Jim showed me how he has remodel his kitchen. He was always there to help. My prayers and thoughts are with you and family.

Owen Lynch

March 5, 2008

Dear Jenneth, I am so saddened to hear of Jim's illness and death. I worked for Jim as a subcontractor on the Pioneer project and always believed him to be a good friend. Jim was very helpful to me in my career and I will always be thankful to him for his guidance and caring. I am sorry that he is gone and I will miss him dearly. My deepest sympathy for your loss.

Lorna Scoville

March 5, 2008

Dear Jennith:

I wish I had met Jim. Funny, smart and brave...sounds like he was a wonderful man. I am so sorry for your loss. Know that my thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Love, Lorna

Robert Bock

March 5, 2008

I briefly met Jim when starting work as a process engineer at Pioneer Video Manufacturing back during LaserDisc days. Even though he moved on from Pioneer shortly after I started, I would always hear of things going on in the Optical Disc field with Jim's name in the middle of it very often. My sincerest condolences to the family.

Betty Bene

March 5, 2008

Was very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Martha Alvarez

March 5, 2008

Dear
Jennith,
I feel so sad to hear about Jim's passing. The time I worked for him at Pioneer assisting him as always with confidence, he always supported me and gave me the opportunity to move forward. I will miss him but I will remember him during those times we share as a boss and assistant. Those memories will be never gone, specially during the Christmas parties that Pioneer employees enjoyed with him.
I would like to express my deepest condolences and be strong to continue your life and remember that you are not alone; he will be with you at all times.

Hugo Palagonia

March 5, 2008

Jennith and Family,

Cecilia and I are deeply saddened with the news of Jim's passing. Our deepest condolence to you all. Jim was a great to me, he will be missed.
Hugo Palagonia & Fmia.

Geoffrey Tully

March 5, 2008

I had the pleasure and privilege to meet Jim during our early days in the LaserDisc business at Pioneer. I always enjoyed his somewhat gruff (but always straight-shooting) approach to the business of optical media manufacturing. I needed his help and guidance frequently, and he never let me down. I respected him for his experience and his insight, and I loved him for his willingness to share his knowledge and experience with others, and for his seemingly constant sense of humor and enjoyment of life.

We crossed paths many times during our careers, and each reconnection was an immediate resumption of my joy in knowing him. The last time I saw Jim, he was in a phase of remission; a testament to his unfailing optimism and courage. I foolishly thought that his unflagging spirit had defeated his cancer.

He was a gentleman, a professional, a comrade, a friend. He will be sorely missed.

Jennith: I was so saddened when I received your notice. I am pleased to learn that you got your trip to Europe together. No words can fill the void his passing will leave; but I pray that your memories of this wonderful man will bring you smiles every day.

JC Mitchell

March 5, 2008

I met Jim over the phone. I was working for a LaserDisc Mfg. company near Detroit, MI, and we had 5 days supply of glue and lost our supplier. I had called to ask for a referral. He said not to worry, and dispatched a truck carrying two pallets of supplies. To add insult to injury, it was raining and snowing heavily across most of the midwest at that time, and not much of anything was moving across the interstate freeways. Much to my surprise, the truck arrived in record time. Apparently Jim had given the driver instructions to stop as little as possible, and that he was delivering this emergency supply shipment for a close personal friend in a critical situation. We were so overjoyed to see that truck, we treated the driver to a four star dinner and the nicest hotel we could find, and after the weather passed sent him home. I had no idea how to thank Jim.
He had adopted me, and like it or not, I was family. It did not matter that i hardly knew him. He just said "sometimes we have to stick together" and I knew he meant it. I worked more directly with Jim at Pioneer a few years later, and for the six years that followed. He was a good leader, good manager, sometimes a dictator, but he was always fair, and always had a big heart.
I am sad to hear that he is no longer with us. My prayers are with you.

Mark Worthington

March 5, 2008

Dear Jennith,

My prayers are with you and your family. Jim was an associate and friend of mine. I will always have very fond memories of him.

Cheryl Fields

March 5, 2008

Tam Steele

March 5, 2008

Jennith,

I am very saddened to hear of Jim's death. Your big guy was a special man and many will miss his hearty laugh, radiant smile and generous nature. My life was brightened by his presence and wealth of information. I think his happiest days were spent with you as he often spoke of how happy you made him and how proud he was of your accomplishments. I know that his grandson was one of his happiest memories for he couldn't wait to get him on the golf course so that grand pop could see his development into a prime athlete. I know your loss is great, please know that others share your grief and that I send my most sincere condolences. I have lost a friend. Love

Joe Kanner

March 5, 2008

Jennith,

I am saddened to hear of Jim's passing.

My prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Joe

Donna Furgeson

March 5, 2008

Dearest Jennith,

All our love and support are with you, whenever you need us.
Love,
Dan & Donna Furgeson

Jay and Pauli Elarcosa

March 5, 2008

Dear Jennith,

Pauli and I are truly sorry to hear about Jim's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and the family. Jim meant a lot to many of us and will be missed.

Puri Hartwell

March 5, 2008

Dear Jennith,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Puri Hartwell

David Wright

March 5, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Burr Baldwin Jr.

March 5, 2008

Jennith
I'm so sorry to hear of Jim Death. I worked with Jim as a tenant with Watson Land Company for over 10 years. We had many great times together at work and in your home in Orange County. My prayers and thoughts go out to you and your family.

Tom Bene

March 5, 2008

Jennith and Family,

Elsie and I are deeply saddened with the news of Jim's passing. Our deepest condolence to you all. Jim was a great inspiration to me….he will be missed.

Ron Hoback

March 5, 2008

Jenneth,

I worked with Jim at Cinram in Commerce. I admired his intelligence but his passion about everything in life was what made him stand out in a crowd. A couple of other people that worked at Cinram currently work for me and I know they will be sad also for your loss.

Curt & Shirley Lance

March 5, 2008

Jim was my older brother, and I always looked up to him. I still do & I always will.
Shirley and I are so grateful for the love and care given him by Jenith during these past years.
We had the great gift of spending a few days with them last October, and visited Yellowstone Park, where we had a picture taken of the two of us. He sent it to me recently and I treasure it as a lasting gift from him of that time together.
Thanks to all who knew him and made their personal contribution to his being the man he was.

Barbara Chill

March 5, 2008

Lenny and I are so saddened by the news of Jim's passing. Even though we only spent a short time with you on our cruise, we came to know and enjoy Jim's and your friendship. With all our sympathy.
Barbara and Lenny Chill Parsippany,NJ

Serge Bozin

March 5, 2008

Jennith,
Our deepest condolences.
Jim was a great friend.
God bless his memories.

Paul Oswald

March 5, 2008

Jennith,

You are in our thoughts.

Judi, Alex and Paul

John Hoppstetter

March 5, 2008

Sharon and I are deeply saddened by the news of Jim's passing. Six of the best years of my life were spent working with Jim in Tucson at GE. We are thankful to you, Jennith for your kindness in letting us know. We
would like very much to be in attend-ance at the private remembrance if possible. May God be real and near to you now and always. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Evelyn McKelvie

March 4, 2008

Jennith,
My thoughts, love, and support are with you. Although I didn't know Jim, I know you will miss him terribly. Grief has its own time. If I can help to ease the pain in any way please let me do so. Love, Evelyn

Velia Nieto

March 4, 2008

Jennith,
My condolences and prayers are with you. Jim was a great friend.
He will be missed. God Bless

Trish O'Doherty

March 4, 2008

Dear Jennith
My heart is so heavy for you. I will continue to keep you in prayer...may God give you the strength and Peace you need to walk out these days.
Love Trish

Joan Biegel

March 4, 2008

Thanks so very much for coming to our Christmas Eve gathering, my Jim and I will cherish the memory..we have you in our prayers and thoughts..love, Joan and Jim

John Knapp

March 4, 2008

Jennith:

Betty and I are very sorry to hear of Jim's passing.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

John and Betty Knapp

sherrill wiseman

March 4, 2008

Jim's picture looks great Jennith. Thinking of you today, tomorrow and beyond. David says hello and how are you? And you know, whatever help our sympathy can bring, is yours in abundance.
love Sherrill and David

Gayle McGuire

March 4, 2008

I'm so sorry to learn of your loss, Jennith; although I never knew Jim, I know that you were very happy with him and that is something very special to always hold close to your heart. Those memories are invaluable and irreplaceable and should be placed in a box in our hearts to take out and examine when a good dose of happiness is needed. I learned early on not to view death as a really bad event and that, I believe, is contrary to our culture. I believe, from what I know, that Jim would want you to focus on happy events and memories, also. Gayle McGuire

Karel Lambell

March 4, 2008

You are in my thoughts and prayers. I will look forward to our next girlfriends lunch.

Showing 1 - 59 of 59 results