James Fenwick (Jim) died in Ventura, CA, on February 12, 2023, at 93.
Born on May 1, 1929, Jim lived a life full of adventure, love, and dedication to his family. After graduating from UCLA with BA in English, Jim went to work for JPL in Pasadena, CA, where he learned how to write software, something he did for the rest of his working life. In 1964, he married the love of his life, Sonja Fenwick. Six years later, with their two children, Quinn and Justine, Jim and Sonja took a trip to the South Pacific and stayed for eight years, seven in New Zealand and one year in Australia, sailing, camping, and trying their hands at many things.
Jim was a thinker and a challenger of orthodoxy. He loved to debate politics and discuss literature, math, and economics. He admired the American Constitution and kept a copy by his bed. He worried greatly about the impact of 8 billion humans on the earth. Ahead of his time, he installed seat belts in his cars for his children long before they were required and became a vegan after a bout with prostate cancer, long before it was hip.
Jim worked best when he worked for himself. He had a successful career running his own software consulting business. He excelled in his passions. He was a vigorous man who liked using his hands to build boats, bookshelves, and hi-fi systems.
What mattered most to Jim, though, was his family. He was always interested in, unfailingly generous with, and wholly committed to his wife Sonja; his children and their spouses Quinn and Geralyn Fenwick and Justine Fenwick and her husband Kevin McBride; his five beautiful grandchildren, Aidan, Connor, Ava, Fiona, and Liam; and his surviving brother and his spouse, Bill and Sui Yee Fenwick.
Jim will be deeply missed.
Private arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.