James Michael Latham

James Michael Latham, age 69, of Grants Pass, died Sunday, March 3, 2013 at his home.

A memorial service will be at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, March 16, 2013 at Hull & Hull Funeral Directors. A reception will follow. Hull & Hull Funeral Directors are in charge of arrangements.

James was born August 22, 1943 in Pendleton, Oregon to J.B. & Louise Latham. He attended Fort Vannoy Elementary School and in 1962 he graduated from Grants Pass High School. He joined the Navy Reserves in Grants Pass and from 1963 to 1967 he served in the United States Navy where he was stationed in the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard with his rank being RD3, Radarman 3rd Class Petty Officer. He also served as part of the commissioning crew of the brand new USS America CVA 66 Aircraft Carrier. He was stationed in Norfolk, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. On July 11, 1964 in San Diego he married the former Nancy Martha Boyer. Most of his professional life he served in law enforcement and security. In 1972 he moved from Haddonfield, New Jersey to Grants Pass, where he worked for the police department. He then worked for many years in the local lumber, plywood and timber industries, including the Josephine County Forestry Department, where he thinned and planted trees.

He volunteered as a 4-H Poultry Club Leader for several years and was active at the Josephine County Fair; he loved purchasing and donating toys for Toys for Tots. He also volunteered at the animal rescue and participated in local animal as well as electronic and amateur radio clubs.

James enjoyed his family, friends, animals and pets, and caregiving. He enjoyed working with his hands, making and fixing various electrical, mechanical, and woodworking items.

Survivors include his wife Nancy M. Latham of Grants Pass; two sons, James R. Latham of Pacific Palisades, California and Daniel R. Latham of Roseburg, Oregon; and five grandchildren.

Preceding him in death was a brother, Pat Latham; a sister, Midge Williams; and his parents, J.B. & Louise Latham.