The Wahkiakum County Eagle-November 20, 2008 James W. Francis James W. Francis, 88, of Long Beach died November 15, 2008 in Long Beach. He was born October 6, 2008 in Pasadena, Calif., one of three children of James and Lillian (Warnock) Francis. He grew up in Pasadena where he was active with hiking, skiing and Eagle Scouts – his father was Scoutmaster. He attended Pasadena City College for two years. At the beginning of World War II he worked for Lockheed Aircraft where he met Betty Jean Gross, and they married on November 19, 1943. He then joined the Merchant Marines, serving on the “SeaBarb,” a cargo and troop ship for two years. Following his discharge he owned two ski shops in the San Bernardino Mountains and one in Pasadena. He later was territory manager for Anheuser-Busch and their top salesman in the area. Following that, he owned and operated two restaurants in June Lake, Calif. For many years he was affiliated with the American Kennel Club as a professional photographer and judge. He retired to Cathlamet and four years ago moved to Long Beach. He is survived by daughters Janet Gatzke of Ocean Park, Pam Lamm of San Diego, Calif., Jennifer Francis of Lakeworth, Ill.; son Brian Francis of Arizona; sister Lillian Robins of Shasta Lake, Calif.; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and nephews Larry and Steve Robins of Shasta Lake, Calif. He was preceded in death by his wife Betty, daughter Kathleen Tharp and brother Robert Francis. The family will hold a private service at a later date. Penttila’s Chapel by The Sea is in charge of arrangments. Unknown Burial 6 October 1919-15 November 2008 (As compiled by the Wahkiakum Historical Society in 2008.)