Jim was born November 11, 1959, Elgin, Illinois, Cook County, to Velma Lorene and James Edward Ketcham, Sr. How proud they were to welcome Dad's namesake to the family.
Jim was welcomed by his two sisters, Loretta Ann (8 years old) and Kathryn Jean (7 years old). Jim's mom was a nuturing mother, she eagerly and willingly showed how to diaper, bathe, sing to, play with, take for a walk, you name it, he was a living baby doll for them. Jim was never bashful, loved life, people, going on neighbor treks, and when the opportunity presented itself, at three he kissed a little blonde haired, blued eyed cutey. Only, the parents of the little girl, they were not as enthusiastic, once the kissed was planted, they were off.
We all applauded Jim for his friendliness. Jim had a zest for life, to live, laugh and love was evident. Jim was known by the neighborhood, the Ketcham girls were known for the daily search and retrival of Jim. In middle school, Jim secured his first job, as a paper boy. He not only covered residential, but a local shopping center in South Pasadena. He was well known and successful. The St. Pete Times interviewed him and included a picture of him, smiling ear to ear with his red freckels chewing blue bubble gum. What a kid! Jim loved cars, he had a large collection of matchbox cars which he treasured, and later was inherited by his son James Edward, (the Third). His love for cars, did not end with the match box cars. He loved NASCAR racing. He played in little league for several years. His family being his avid fans.
Though his high school years were rocky, once he entered into the U.S. Navy, December 15, 1989, he followed the footsteps of his Dad, James E. Ketcham, Sr. During his service to our country, Jim received: Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation (2nd), Battle "E", Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Second Good Conduct Medal for period ending November 01, 1991. On, June 1992 Jim received an Honorable Discharge.
Due to physical disablility, Jim then secured employment with the Veterans Administration in St. Petersburg, Florida. With a heart full of determination, Jim starting low on the ladder of success, began his journey to first earn his Associate's degree at St Petersburg College, while working full time at the VA, and continued on to earn his Bachelor's degree from USF. Not satisfied, he earned his Master's degree at the University of South Florida, while still working full time. He attained the position of Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, which instilled pride in his family.
Jim met Deborah Ann Davis while stationed in Mayport, Florida. They were wed in Green Cove Springs, Florida, with the wedding service being officiated by Debbie's cousin. They were married on July 5, 1985 in a small ceremony. Debbie soon experienced the life of a military wife. They were blessed with their first child, (born premature, but a fighter) James Edward Ketcham, III, born October 30, 1985 in Jacksonville, Florida. James III had to remain in the Neonatal Intensive Care unit and reach 5 pounds before he could join mom and dad at home. The next blessing was Melissa Nicole Ketcham, February 11, 1987, born in Charleston, South Carolina. Two beautiful children, blessings from above, joy abounded in their lives. Debbie and Jim resided in Jacksonville, Florida, Charleston, South Carolina and St. Petersburg, Florida, and ultimately in Pinellas Park, Florida.
Jim is survived by Deborah Ann Ketcham (Debbie), Pinellas Park, Florida. Son, James Edward Ketcham, III, Bayfield, Wisconsin, a member of the Coast Guard. Daughter, Melissa Nicole Ketcham, Lakeland, Florida, is currently attending Southeastern University, and working as a teacher at the Victory Baptist pre-school. Father, James E. Ketcham, Sr., Pinellas Park, Florida. Sister, Loretta Ann Wilcoxen, husband Rob, St. Petersburg, Florida, Sister, Kathryn Jean Panagiotacos, husband Alex, St. Petersburg, Florida.
His family knew Jim as "Uncle Jim", who was bigger than life to them. He never missed a band performance, attended all the graduations (James Andrew's being the most memorable, while he kept saying it was only indigestion, Jim had an Acute Myocardial Infarction at the close of the commencement exercises, and went home to get some anacids, when he told Debbie to call 911. It was an eventful night, but the good Lord allowed us more time with Uncle Jim. He was present at the weddings, this time Alexander's wedding, he sprang a leak to his Gastric Bypass. Mind you, Jim felt he could make the journey from St. Petersburg to Hollywood, Florida, while he and Debbie did, they had to leave early due the incision site, Mr. Frost from the Christian Missionary Alliance Church, where the wedding was held, being a EMT came to the rescue. He redressed the wound, and Jim and Debbie left early from the reception, with Debbie who as a rule does not drive on long distance treks managed to drive home.
Nephews and Nieces: Lorene Ruth Wilcoxen, Jennifer Ellen Wilcoxen, (great niece: Emma Grace) St. Petersburg, Florida, Robert Lee Wilcoxen and wife Sally, San Diego, California. Robert is currently serving in the Marines in Iraq. (great nieces: Rebecca Ann, and Kayla Mae), G. Alexander Panagiotacos, wife Jaime (great nieces: Rebecca Kathryn, Makayla Joy and great nephew: G. Alexander) reside in Asheville, North Carolina, James Andrew Panagiotacos, wife Faith, Largo, Florida.
Jim is also survived by his beloved Pepper (Solid black Cocker Spaniel – 11 years old) and Shelby (Basset Hound 2 years old.) Oh how they miss their head pats, good scratch behind the ears, and those belly rubs. They will not forget you, ever.
contributed by William McDonald, Ph.D.
Jim was welcomed by his two sisters, Loretta Ann (8 years old) and Kathryn Jean (7 years old). Jim's mom was a nuturing mother, she eagerly and willingly showed how to diaper, bathe, sing to, play with, take for a walk, you name it, he was a living baby doll for them. Jim was never bashful, loved life, people, going on neighbor treks, and when the opportunity presented itself, at three he kissed a little blonde haired, blued eyed cutey. Only, the parents of the little girl, they were not as enthusiastic, once the kissed was planted, they were off.
We all applauded Jim for his friendliness. Jim had a zest for life, to live, laugh and love was evident. Jim was known by the neighborhood, the Ketcham girls were known for the daily search and retrival of Jim. In middle school, Jim secured his first job, as a paper boy. He not only covered residential, but a local shopping center in South Pasadena. He was well known and successful. The St. Pete Times interviewed him and included a picture of him, smiling ear to ear with his red freckels chewing blue bubble gum. What a kid! Jim loved cars, he had a large collection of matchbox cars which he treasured, and later was inherited by his son James Edward, (the Third). His love for cars, did not end with the match box cars. He loved NASCAR racing. He played in little league for several years. His family being his avid fans.
Though his high school years were rocky, once he entered into the U.S. Navy, December 15, 1989, he followed the footsteps of his Dad, James E. Ketcham, Sr. During his service to our country, Jim received: Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation (2nd), Battle "E", Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Second Good Conduct Medal for period ending November 01, 1991. On, June 1992 Jim received an Honorable Discharge.
Due to physical disablility, Jim then secured employment with the Veterans Administration in St. Petersburg, Florida. With a heart full of determination, Jim starting low on the ladder of success, began his journey to first earn his Associate's degree at St Petersburg College, while working full time at the VA, and continued on to earn his Bachelor's degree from USF. Not satisfied, he earned his Master's degree at the University of South Florida, while still working full time. He attained the position of Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, which instilled pride in his family.
Jim met Deborah Ann Davis while stationed in Mayport, Florida. They were wed in Green Cove Springs, Florida, with the wedding service being officiated by Debbie's cousin. They were married on July 5, 1985 in a small ceremony. Debbie soon experienced the life of a military wife. They were blessed with their first child, (born premature, but a fighter) James Edward Ketcham, III, born October 30, 1985 in Jacksonville, Florida. James III had to remain in the Neonatal Intensive Care unit and reach 5 pounds before he could join mom and dad at home. The next blessing was Melissa Nicole Ketcham, February 11, 1987, born in Charleston, South Carolina. Two beautiful children, blessings from above, joy abounded in their lives. Debbie and Jim resided in Jacksonville, Florida, Charleston, South Carolina and St. Petersburg, Florida, and ultimately in Pinellas Park, Florida.
Jim is survived by Deborah Ann Ketcham (Debbie), Pinellas Park, Florida. Son, James Edward Ketcham, III, Bayfield, Wisconsin, a member of the Coast Guard. Daughter, Melissa Nicole Ketcham, Lakeland, Florida, is currently attending Southeastern University, and working as a teacher at the Victory Baptist pre-school. Father, James E. Ketcham, Sr., Pinellas Park, Florida. Sister, Loretta Ann Wilcoxen, husband Rob, St. Petersburg, Florida, Sister, Kathryn Jean Panagiotacos, husband Alex, St. Petersburg, Florida.
His family knew Jim as "Uncle Jim", who was bigger than life to them. He never missed a band performance, attended all the graduations (James Andrew's being the most memorable, while he kept saying it was only indigestion, Jim had an Acute Myocardial Infarction at the close of the commencement exercises, and went home to get some anacids, when he told Debbie to call 911. It was an eventful night, but the good Lord allowed us more time with Uncle Jim. He was present at the weddings, this time Alexander's wedding, he sprang a leak to his Gastric Bypass. Mind you, Jim felt he could make the journey from St. Petersburg to Hollywood, Florida, while he and Debbie did, they had to leave early due the incision site, Mr. Frost from the Christian Missionary Alliance Church, where the wedding was held, being a EMT came to the rescue. He redressed the wound, and Jim and Debbie left early from the reception, with Debbie who as a rule does not drive on long distance treks managed to drive home.
Nephews and Nieces: Lorene Ruth Wilcoxen, Jennifer Ellen Wilcoxen, (great niece: Emma Grace) St. Petersburg, Florida, Robert Lee Wilcoxen and wife Sally, San Diego, California. Robert is currently serving in the Marines in Iraq. (great nieces: Rebecca Ann, and Kayla Mae), G. Alexander Panagiotacos, wife Jaime (great nieces: Rebecca Kathryn, Makayla Joy and great nephew: G. Alexander) reside in Asheville, North Carolina, James Andrew Panagiotacos, wife Faith, Largo, Florida.
Jim is also survived by his beloved Pepper (Solid black Cocker Spaniel – 11 years old) and Shelby (Basset Hound 2 years old.) Oh how they miss their head pats, good scratch behind the ears, and those belly rubs. They will not forget you, ever.
contributed by William McDonald, Ph.D.
Jim was born November 11, 1959, Elgin, Illinois, Cook County, to Velma Lorene and James Edward Ketcham, Sr. How proud they were to welcome Dad's namesake to the family.
Jim was welcomed by his two sisters, Loretta Ann (8 years old) and Kathryn Jean (7 years old). Jim's mom was a nuturing mother, she eagerly and willingly showed how to diaper, bathe, sing to, play with, take for a walk, you name it, he was a living baby doll for them. Jim was never bashful, loved life, people, going on neighbor treks, and when the opportunity presented itself, at three he kissed a little blonde haired, blued eyed cutey. Only, the parents of the little girl, they were not as enthusiastic, once the kissed was planted, they were off.
We all applauded Jim for his friendliness. Jim had a zest for life, to live, laugh and love was evident. Jim was known by the neighborhood, the Ketcham girls were known for the daily search and retrival of Jim. In middle school, Jim secured his first job, as a paper boy. He not only covered residential, but a local shopping center in South Pasadena. He was well known and successful. The St. Pete Times interviewed him and included a picture of him, smiling ear to ear with his red freckels chewing blue bubble gum. What a kid! Jim loved cars, he had a large collection of matchbox cars which he treasured, and later was inherited by his son James Edward, (the Third). His love for cars, did not end with the match box cars. He loved NASCAR racing. He played in little league for several years. His family being his avid fans.
Though his high school years were rocky, once he entered into the U.S. Navy, December 15, 1989, he followed the footsteps of his Dad, James E. Ketcham, Sr. During his service to our country, Jim received: Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation (2nd), Battle "E", Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Second Good Conduct Medal for period ending November 01, 1991. On, June 1992 Jim received an Honorable Discharge.
Due to physical disablility, Jim then secured employment with the Veterans Administration in St. Petersburg, Florida. With a heart full of determination, Jim starting low on the ladder of success, began his journey to first earn his Associate's degree at St Petersburg College, while working full time at the VA, and continued on to earn his Bachelor's degree from USF. Not satisfied, he earned his Master's degree at the University of South Florida, while still working full time. He attained the position of Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, which instilled pride in his family.
Jim met Deborah Ann Davis while stationed in Mayport, Florida. They were wed in Green Cove Springs, Florida, with the wedding service being officiated by Debbie's cousin. They were married on July 5, 1985 in a small ceremony. Debbie soon experienced the life of a military wife. They were blessed with their first child, (born premature, but a fighter) James Edward Ketcham, III, born October 30, 1985 in Jacksonville, Florida. James III had to remain in the Neonatal Intensive Care unit and reach 5 pounds before he could join mom and dad at home. The next blessing was Melissa Nicole Ketcham, February 11, 1987, born in Charleston, South Carolina. Two beautiful children, blessings from above, joy abounded in their lives. Debbie and Jim resided in Jacksonville, Florida, Charleston, South Carolina and St. Petersburg, Florida, and ultimately in Pinellas Park, Florida.
Jim is survived by Deborah Ann Ketcham (Debbie), Pinellas Park, Florida. Son, James Edward Ketcham, III, Bayfield, Wisconsin, a member of the Coast Guard. Daughter, Melissa Nicole Ketcham, Lakeland, Florida, is currently attending Southeastern University, and working as a teacher at the Victory Baptist pre-school. Father, James E. Ketcham, Sr., Pinellas Park, Florida. Sister, Loretta Ann Wilcoxen, husband Rob, St. Petersburg, Florida, Sister, Kathryn Jean Panagiotacos, husband Alex, St. Petersburg, Florida.
His family knew Jim as "Uncle Jim", who was bigger than life to them. He never missed a band performance, attended all the graduations (James Andrew's being the most memorable, while he kept saying it was only indigestion, Jim had an Acute Myocardial Infarction at the close of the commencement exercises, and went home to get some anacids, when he told Debbie to call 911. It was an eventful night, but the good Lord allowed us more time with Uncle Jim. He was present at the weddings, this time Alexander's wedding, he sprang a leak to his Gastric Bypass. Mind you, Jim felt he could make the journey from St. Petersburg to Hollywood, Florida, while he and Debbie did, they had to leave early due the incision site, Mr. Frost from the Christian Missionary Alliance Church, where the wedding was held, being a EMT came to the rescue. He redressed the wound, and Jim and Debbie left early from the reception, with Debbie who as a rule does not drive on long distance treks managed to drive home.
Nephews and Nieces: Lorene Ruth Wilcoxen, Jennifer Ellen Wilcoxen, (great niece: Emma Grace) St. Petersburg, Florida, Robert Lee Wilcoxen and wife Sally, San Diego, California. Robert is currently serving in the Marines in Iraq. (great nieces: Rebecca Ann, and Kayla Mae), G. Alexander Panagiotacos, wife Jaime (great nieces: Rebecca Kathryn, Makayla Joy and great nephew: G. Alexander) reside in Asheville, North Carolina, James Andrew Panagiotacos, wife Faith, Largo, Florida.
Jim is also survived by his beloved Pepper (Solid black Cocker Spaniel – 11 years old) and Shelby (Basset Hound 2 years old.) Oh how they miss their head pats, good scratch behind the ears, and those belly rubs. They will not forget you, ever.
contributed by William McDonald, Ph.D.
Jim was welcomed by his two sisters, Loretta Ann (8 years old) and Kathryn Jean (7 years old). Jim's mom was a nuturing mother, she eagerly and willingly showed how to diaper, bathe, sing to, play with, take for a walk, you name it, he was a living baby doll for them. Jim was never bashful, loved life, people, going on neighbor treks, and when the opportunity presented itself, at three he kissed a little blonde haired, blued eyed cutey. Only, the parents of the little girl, they were not as enthusiastic, once the kissed was planted, they were off.
We all applauded Jim for his friendliness. Jim had a zest for life, to live, laugh and love was evident. Jim was known by the neighborhood, the Ketcham girls were known for the daily search and retrival of Jim. In middle school, Jim secured his first job, as a paper boy. He not only covered residential, but a local shopping center in South Pasadena. He was well known and successful. The St. Pete Times interviewed him and included a picture of him, smiling ear to ear with his red freckels chewing blue bubble gum. What a kid! Jim loved cars, he had a large collection of matchbox cars which he treasured, and later was inherited by his son James Edward, (the Third). His love for cars, did not end with the match box cars. He loved NASCAR racing. He played in little league for several years. His family being his avid fans.
Though his high school years were rocky, once he entered into the U.S. Navy, December 15, 1989, he followed the footsteps of his Dad, James E. Ketcham, Sr. During his service to our country, Jim received: Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation (2nd), Battle "E", Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Second Good Conduct Medal for period ending November 01, 1991. On, June 1992 Jim received an Honorable Discharge.
Due to physical disablility, Jim then secured employment with the Veterans Administration in St. Petersburg, Florida. With a heart full of determination, Jim starting low on the ladder of success, began his journey to first earn his Associate's degree at St Petersburg College, while working full time at the VA, and continued on to earn his Bachelor's degree from USF. Not satisfied, he earned his Master's degree at the University of South Florida, while still working full time. He attained the position of Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, which instilled pride in his family.
Jim met Deborah Ann Davis while stationed in Mayport, Florida. They were wed in Green Cove Springs, Florida, with the wedding service being officiated by Debbie's cousin. They were married on July 5, 1985 in a small ceremony. Debbie soon experienced the life of a military wife. They were blessed with their first child, (born premature, but a fighter) James Edward Ketcham, III, born October 30, 1985 in Jacksonville, Florida. James III had to remain in the Neonatal Intensive Care unit and reach 5 pounds before he could join mom and dad at home. The next blessing was Melissa Nicole Ketcham, February 11, 1987, born in Charleston, South Carolina. Two beautiful children, blessings from above, joy abounded in their lives. Debbie and Jim resided in Jacksonville, Florida, Charleston, South Carolina and St. Petersburg, Florida, and ultimately in Pinellas Park, Florida.
Jim is survived by Deborah Ann Ketcham (Debbie), Pinellas Park, Florida. Son, James Edward Ketcham, III, Bayfield, Wisconsin, a member of the Coast Guard. Daughter, Melissa Nicole Ketcham, Lakeland, Florida, is currently attending Southeastern University, and working as a teacher at the Victory Baptist pre-school. Father, James E. Ketcham, Sr., Pinellas Park, Florida. Sister, Loretta Ann Wilcoxen, husband Rob, St. Petersburg, Florida, Sister, Kathryn Jean Panagiotacos, husband Alex, St. Petersburg, Florida.
His family knew Jim as "Uncle Jim", who was bigger than life to them. He never missed a band performance, attended all the graduations (James Andrew's being the most memorable, while he kept saying it was only indigestion, Jim had an Acute Myocardial Infarction at the close of the commencement exercises, and went home to get some anacids, when he told Debbie to call 911. It was an eventful night, but the good Lord allowed us more time with Uncle Jim. He was present at the weddings, this time Alexander's wedding, he sprang a leak to his Gastric Bypass. Mind you, Jim felt he could make the journey from St. Petersburg to Hollywood, Florida, while he and Debbie did, they had to leave early due the incision site, Mr. Frost from the Christian Missionary Alliance Church, where the wedding was held, being a EMT came to the rescue. He redressed the wound, and Jim and Debbie left early from the reception, with Debbie who as a rule does not drive on long distance treks managed to drive home.
Nephews and Nieces: Lorene Ruth Wilcoxen, Jennifer Ellen Wilcoxen, (great niece: Emma Grace) St. Petersburg, Florida, Robert Lee Wilcoxen and wife Sally, San Diego, California. Robert is currently serving in the Marines in Iraq. (great nieces: Rebecca Ann, and Kayla Mae), G. Alexander Panagiotacos, wife Jaime (great nieces: Rebecca Kathryn, Makayla Joy and great nephew: G. Alexander) reside in Asheville, North Carolina, James Andrew Panagiotacos, wife Faith, Largo, Florida.
Jim is also survived by his beloved Pepper (Solid black Cocker Spaniel – 11 years old) and Shelby (Basset Hound 2 years old.) Oh how they miss their head pats, good scratch behind the ears, and those belly rubs. They will not forget you, ever.
contributed by William McDonald, Ph.D.
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HT1 US NAVY; PERSIAN GULF
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