James Allen Zieman

September 18, 1930 - May 5, 2018

James Zieman, 87, passed away due to complications from COPD. Jim was born in Elgin, Illinois and was proud of his midwestern roots. He graduated from Elgin Watch College before being drafted into the Army during the Korean War. He was stationed on Okinawa, where he was honorably discharged and stayed to work for the Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES). Although he was with AAFES for over 30 years, he always identified his profession as watchmaker. When he retired, he devoted himself full-time to watchmaking and repair. He worked at the Tic-Tockery in Fairfield, CA for many happy years, as well as doing freelance work for various clients. Before COPD limited his movement, Jim enjoyed puttering around his backyard and doing A LOT of jigsaw puzzles. Down-to-earth and plainspoken, he was a man of strong values and a keen sense of right and wrong. Even in his final hours, he was no-nonsense, telling everyone at his bedside that he was the boss and wanted to go. Jim was dedicated to his family and especially adored his grandsons. He is survived by his daughter, Linda (Dave) Sturgis; his grandsons, Vincent Sturgis and Phillip Sturgis; his sister, Ardith (Harold) Meyer; and his nephew, Mike (Mary) Gustafson. He was predeceased by his wife of 52 years, Toshiko. At Jim’s request, there will be no services. Jim's family would like to thank his home caretakers Angela Devera and Craig Cudal and the doctors, nurses and staff of Sutter Solano Medical Center for their excellent and compassionate care.