James Richard Nowlin |
| Posted 2009-04-22 by Judy Wight Branson |
| The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Tuesday, April 14, 2009 James Richard Nowlin, age 82, passed away on April 9, 2009, in Prescott, Ariz. Jim was born Feb. 12, 1927, to Marie and William S. Nowlin in Spokane, Wash. As a teenager, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served in the Philippines. While in the military, Jim honed his musical talents, becoming a true "Boogie-Woogie Bugle Boy." His musical gifts served him well over the years, and it is said, "Jim never met an instrument he couldn't play." After his honorable discharge, Jim attended UCLA and the University of Paris. He traveled across Europe with his longtime friend Beau Hudson before returning to California. There, in Mahattan Beach, he wed his bride Margaret and began his family. Jim, Maggie and their two children, Catherine and Samuel, moved to Phoenix, Ariz., in 1959, and Jim became an Aeronautical Engineering Representative. In 1961, Jim started his own business, Southwest Engineering, and achieved great success. He and Maggie were able to travel abroad, build homes in Scottsdale and enjoy a desert ranch lifestyle. Jim became a pilot and flew his Cessna across the southern states. The family enjoyed camping and exploring Arizona. Prescott became a favorite destination, and Jim and Maggie retired there in 1986. Jim was a Northern Arizona Chapter member of the Service Corp of Retired Executives (SCORE). He relished his life in Prescott, made many great friends and raised numerous spoiled pets. He and Maggie also had grandchildren to dote over, and those grandchildren produced great-grandchildren. He was active in this town until he was diagnosed with dementia in 1996. Jim was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Nowlin Melton; and by his son, Sam Nowlin. Jim is survived by his bride and best friend of 55 years, Maggie, as well as his adoring daughter, Cathy; grandchildren Allison, Sarah, Natalie, Waylon, Jacob and Ben; great-grandchildren Kylie, Kolton, Devon, Hayden and Emily; his dear brother and sister-in-law, W.B and Lois Nowlin; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. His bright and ready smile will be missed by many. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, Utah, 84741-5000. Arizona Ruffner Wakelin Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements. Information provided by survivors. |
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