James W. E. Heselton
James W. E. Heselton (Jim) left us on Oct. 27, 2021, to reunite with the love of his life, Janis.
Jim was born in London England on Aug. 2, 1941, to parents William and Ivy. His brother, David, was born in 1950 and the family immigrated to the U.S. in 1955. Jim and his family lived in the Stockton area where he met his future bride, Janis E. Horton.
He served in the U.S. Army from 1960 – 1963 where he served as an M.P. He also became a citizen of the U.S. while stationed in Utah. After being discharged from the Army, Jim and Janis were married and started their family. They had 2 daughters, Kristine and Kathryn, and a son, Robert John (deceased).
He worked for Brunner’s Furniture for 10 yrs and then went to work for California Dept. of Corrections at D.V.I. They moved to Susanville in 1974 and Jim went to work at C.C.C. He retired from C.D.C on April Fools Day 1999 which is a good example of his sense of humor. Several of Jim’s co-workers received “trophies.” One for setting his garage on fire, one for a failed attempt at climbing Thompson Peak, Tweety Bird on a pedestal for a retiring warden, a bronzed uniform hat that should have been replaced years before, just to name a few.
Jim enjoyed fishing, camping, woodworking, country music and going on cruises with his wife. He loved to ride his motorcycle, whether riding on a mission with the Patriot Guard Riders or just riding to Bordertown for a grilled ham and cheese sandwich.
Going through the “Purple Book” Jim mentions over and over how important his wife and family were to him. He was very proud he was able to provide for his family.
Jim is survived by his daughters Kristine (Larry) Duncan and Kathryn Cardenas; his grandchildren Victoria Fargo/McCulley, Robert A. Wirta, Stephanie Wirta and Samantha Cardenas; 10 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death were his wife, Janis E., his son, Robert J., and his parents, William and Ivy.
The last year or so of Jim’s life was a struggle and we would like to thank Kathy for all she did and the sacrifices she made. She was there with him and for him through the end of his life.
Graveside services were held Nov. 9, 2021, at Diamond Crest Cemetery and a memorial gathering will be held in the spring.
