James Lyle Sims

James Lyle Sims passed away peacefully at his home in San Francisco on September 24, 2014 with his loving wife at his side along with Danny Benatar, a friend whom he loved as a son. Jim leaves behind his siblings: Donald, Roberta, Dee and Sarah.

After serving in the armed forces, Jim spent his early years traveling through Mexico on his 1954 BMW motorcycle and climbing mountains in Yosemite, returning to the Bay Area to work on the construction of the underground BART system. In 1976, Jim began a long career as project manager at Esprit de Corps, overseeing the construction of retail stores throughout the U.S.

Jim’s interests were broad and diverse, ranging from books to birds, and travel in Mexico, Costa Rica and India. A long time runner, Jim knew well the streets of San Francisco and the location of every used book store and Mexican cantina.

With Velma, his wife of 46 years, Jim built their home in the Sonoma hills in Kenwood where together they lived quietly amongst lifelong friends. Their annual holiday party brought together old friends who shared Jim’s appreciation for good wine and conversation.

Jim’s brother Don, sister Sarah, Dee and Roberta join Jim's wife and Danny in saluting a wonderful life, lived to its fullest with rich experiences and good friends and neighbors.

There will be no services or requests for donations. Remembrances will be private.

Visit www.jimsimsmemorial.com