James Donald Douglas

Douglas, James Donald
November 29, 1927 – March 5, 2011
Until three days prior to his death, Jim was still physically active and full of his ever present optimism, enthusiasm, and love of life and family.
Jim grew up in the then sparsely populated community of Balboa Island where his father, Donald Douglas, owned and operated the Douglas Boat and Canoe Company and his mother, Christine, was the first librarian of the Newport Beach Library. As he grew up, he was able to sail, swim, fish and hunt in the local area. He attended Newport Beach Elementary School and graduated in 1945 from Newport Harbor High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served on the aircraft carrier, USS Hancock. He and his buddies loved surfing, sports and building custom roadsters. Shortly after his marriage to Joe Ann Smith, of Riverside, California, in 1950, he served during the Korean Conflict in the U.S. Army for two years.
Jim had a satisfying and very successful career with Hunter Douglas, Inc., from 1950 to 1992. He is survived by the love of his life, Joe Ann. They were married over 60 years and shared a joyful, rich relationship. They have lived in the lovely beach community of San Clemente for 27 years, where Jim was a long time volunteer for the City of San Clemente and the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens. Jim and Joe Ann took many memorable trips over the years, with Alaska and Hawaii among their favorite destinations. He is also survived by his son, Don, his wife, Carma, and their two daughters, Amanda and Jenna; daughter, Lori Bryant, and her husband, Warren; son, Bruce, his wife, Terri, and their twin son and daughter, Robert and Cameron. Jim was a magnificent husband, father, and granddad who derived his greatest joy from being with his family and friends.
A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, Jim requested donations be made to: Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens in San Clemente, Family Assistance Ministries of San Clemente, or a charity of your choice.