James Edward Spain: April 11, 1927 - June 4, 2010

James E. Spain, beloved father and grandfather, died peacefully in his home June 4 after a valiant fight with cancer. He was a longtime Newport Beach resident.

He is survived by his cherished wife of 60 years, Marilyn, loving children James and his wife, Pamela, of Rancho Santa Fe, Michael and his wife, Elizabeth, of Corona Del Mar, daughter Sheryl Skidmore of Newport Beach, and five adoring granddaughters - Kate and Megan Skidmore, Emily and Caroline Spain, and Sheridan Spain.

Jim was born in Redlands to Jim and Rose Spain. He grew up in San Bernardino and graduated from St. Bernardine’s High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and proudly served during World War II. After the war he attended Saint Mary’s College.

He joined the family business in 1948 and became president of J.E. Spain Shoes in 1949 when his father passed away suddenly. He was a highly respected member of the retail shoe business for many years. He was associated with Harris Co., F.C. Nash Co., Hinshaws and Walker-Scott. He served on the National Board of Shoe Retailers.

He was a member of the Orange County Founders Club of the Alzheimer’s Assn., the Alzheimer’s Community Advisory Board and an early supporter of that organization. Jim was a member of the Newport Harbor Yacht Club since 1955.

His family is blessed with an abundance of treasured memories of the times spent sharing holidays, Hawaiian trips, Notre Dame football and “Camp Newport” vacations. He will be remembered most for his care, loyalty and devotion to his family and friends and his wonderful Irish sense of humor.

Funeral Mass will be at noon June 10th at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Newport Beach. Donations in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assn. of Orange County, 17771 Cowan Suite 200, Irvine, CA 92614.