Roll Call Tribute

Published in The Sacramento (CA) Bee from July 8 to July 9, 2017

James R. Dickerson
Jim Dickerson, beloved husband, father, neighbor and friend, died on June 29, 2017, after a very brief battle with cancer. Known for his entertaining stories and sense of humor, Jim wrote his own obituary a few years ago... I am survived by two much-beloved women: my wife of 55 years, Claudia, and daughter Laura. I grew up in Waco, Texas, met Claudia at age 16 and several months later decided that someday I would marry her. And 5 years later I did just that. After college at Texas A&M, I worked in New Orleans, Dallas and Houston as field engineer on commercial construction projects. A vacation to California led us to escape the Houston climate and move to Sacramento in 1968. A new career in insurance sales led to 49 years in the business. As co-owner of Folsom Insurance, that wonderful partnership with my friend Charles Schlenker lasted 28 years. A man of many interests, at one time or another owned a 28 foot cabin cruiser and was Commodore of the Sacramento Yacht Club, was an assistant CampFire Girl leader, stamp and document collector, fisherman, photographer, British car enthusiast/ victim, amateur chef/pit boss, target shooter, two-bit poker player, CCW holder, voracious reader etc, etc. A longtime resident of Gold River, and member of Fremont Presbyterian Church and couples group The Holy Mackerels. I consider that I have led a wonderful life, growing up in a time of freedom and plenty, living in this great country, growing old with the woman I have loved for so long, a successful daughter, and great friends, so you will hear no complaints from me. In lieu of flowers, do something nice for someone, make that call you have been putting off, smile, and enjoy the time you have left. - JRD At Jim's request, there will be no service. He will be missed by all who knew him. Please honor his memory by sharing love and laughter with those closest to you.