James Andrew Smith

James Andrew Smith, 66, died from kidney cancer at home with wife Susan at his side on May 27, 2012.

No service will be held at this time.

James Andrew Smith (Jim) was born on September 23, 1945 in San Diego, California to Mary Lee (Kissinger) and Eldred Payton Smith. Jim was raised in Leucadia, California a couple of blocks from the Pacific Ocean and later in San Marcos, Calif. He was a surfer from 7 years old until he and wife Susan (Reed) moved from Cardiff by the Sea, California to Union, Oregon in 1999. Little did he know he'd be spending his time raising vegetables and chickens in Oregon.

Jim retired at 53 after working more than 35 years for the public utility company SDG&E. He often said gypsies sold him to the SDG&E. Jim's humor will be well remembered by many. His stories, real and imagined always brought smiles and good feelings to those around him. Jim was notorious for meandering through a plausible story leaving the listener stumped as to how they got tricked once more by an obvious tall tale and joke. He had a gentlemanly nature when around women, young and old. His beard got many gentle tugs even though at first sight you might not know if he was a gnarled mountain man, a motley biker, or a missing ZZ top band member.
When Jim was 27 he became the youngest Master of the Oceanside, California Masonic Lodge. He transferred to the Union Lodge and was treasurer for almost 5 years and coached a few new members. He'll be missed as the dishwasher for their many community breakfasts and dinners. Jim volunteered to help maintain the Pioneer Cemetery at the Park for several years. He respected the history of this beautiful valley.
With his expertise as a welder Jim began making model T type toy trucks & cars for his 3 children and eventually gave many away. Over the years he also made miniature trains, battleships and diorama structures.

Jim is survived by his wife of 34 years, Susan (Reed) of Union; their son Kirkpatrick and his wife Sarah and their infant daughter Amelia Smith of Coos Bay, Oregon; from his first marriage, daughter Patricia and her children Kaley and Keaton Clutter of Oceanside, Calif.; and son James P. Smith of Salton City, Calif.; his sister Cara Wimer of Oceano, Calif.; and brother Jeff Smith of Borrego, Calif.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Eldred in 1991; his mother, Mary in 2008.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Heart ‘n Home Foundation (hospice) at 1100 N. W. 12 St., Fruitland, Idaho 83619.

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