James Murray Sirotta

James (Jim) Murray Sirotta was a native Californian. He was born in Pasadena on August 31, 1921. The son of a Jewish Russian immigrant, Henry Sirotta, and a native New Yorker, Dorothy Charlotte Barnett, Jim was educated at Hollywood High School and later graduated from UCLA with a degree in accounting. During World War II, Jim trained as an engineer and ultimately fought valiantly at the Battle of The Bulge, meriting the Bronze Star, The Purple Heart and other service decorations. Following the war, Jim met and married Dolores Winifred Cane, a USC student. Together they had three children: Kathy, Penny and Douglas. Jim owned a very successful jewelry business in Glendale for over fifty years. He also donated much of his time and resources to help support The City of Hope. Jim's passions were raising orchids, gardening, global travel with his wife, and love for his family and pets. Last year he celebrated his 90th birthday with dozens of friends and family at a lavish dinner tribute in Palm Desert, where videos of his life's experiences were presented. This past autumn, Jim and Dolores also celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. Life at any age can be fleeting. On this past Thanksgiving Day, Jim had a tragic fall and was seriously injured. After two weeks of intensive care and a day in hospice, he passed away peacefully in Westlake Village. Yet he will remain with us always. Jim is survived by his wife Dolores, his three children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at Pierce Brothers Mortuary in Westlake Village at 2 pm on December 18.