James M. McVeigh

Jim made it out of 2020, passing away 23 hours into the New Year at his Benicia residence at the age of 69. Anyone who knew Jim would recognize this as his last stubborn stance. Diagnosed with cancer two and a half years ago and given six months to live, stubborn is the word. He was a father. A husband. A dog lover (and reluctant cat lover). A passionate (democratic) political pundit in his own right, and true lover of knowledge. Born in April 16th, 1951, to parents Marjorie and Cyril McVeigh, Jim grew up with siblings Carol, Don, and Ed “Eddie Paul” in the small Nebraska town of Chadron and from the outset he was determined to create a life that was bigger than himself. His adventurous spirit led him to work various jobs at both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park. Working in the parks served as an excuse to explore the beauty of nature, have run-ins with wildlife, and to be frank, party with his friends. A short time after this, on a whim, his friend called asking him to move to California. So he did, setting out on a new journey, distinctly different from his past. Having moved to San Francisco, Jim obtained a bachelor’s degree in accounting from San Francisco State University. Soon after, Jim met his wife, Lisa, at a San Francisco CPA firm where they both worked. They married three years later and moved to Benicia where they raised their four children. Jim’s proudest professional experience was opening his own accounting practice in Benicia, at which he worked for 34 years, right up until his death. Jim was a passionate sports fan who loyally rooted for the Giants, Warriors, 49ers and Nebraska Cornhuskers. Known as “coach Jim,” he served as a coach for many of his own children’s soccer teams. Late in life, he developed an affection for road biking which he did extensively with the Benicia Bicycling Club, even participating in the Tour de Wyoming, a 370-mile biking event. Throughout his life, Jim showed that love comes from kindness. He was an active and dedicated father, and an advocate for those in need. Even in his death, he worried more about those around him than he did himself. He was and will forever be a kind adventurer, a thinker, and a man of many opinions. Life is more than any of us. Jim taught us that. And also that stubbornness pays off. We love you, Dad. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Lisa, children Brandon, Meaghan, Ryan, Todd, daughter-in-law Anna, his siblings Don McVeigh and Carol Moser, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Due to the pandemic a small, private service will be held on Saturday, January 16th at 2pm. However, viewing via live stream is available. If you would like to access the stream or if you need more information please contact Leslie Whitney at 707-746-5604, Brandon McVeigh-Murphy at brandonmcveigh2044@gmail.com, or Lisa McVeigh at lisatrainer@att.net.

James M. McVeigh

April 16, 1951 - January 1, 2021