James 'Jim' Walter Nivens

James "Jim" Walter Nivens passed away peacefully with his son at his side on Aug. 22, 2012, at Saint Helena Hospital after a long battle with diabetes. Born the son of Kate and Clea Nivens in Cave Springs, Ark., in 1936, he is survived by his wife, Ann; daughter, Dolores; son, Michael; grandchildren, Michel, Erika, Carleigh and Xochitl. He grew up on a small farm in Lowell, Ark., and following high school served proudly in the United States Marine Corps, where he was promoted to the rank of sergeant. He was awarded the Marine Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and was a member of the American Legion. His assignments included the Marine Corps Recruiting Depot in San Diego and the Hunters Point Naval Shipyard in San Francisco. While assigned to the Military Police Unit at the Hunters Point Naval Shipyard, he met Ann, was married and called San Francisco his home. After serving his country, he drove a truck for Remington Rand Office Systems and Lawson Drayage. He was a lifelong member of Teamsters Union Local 85, serving also as a job steward. After several years in San Francisco, he and Ann moved the family to Fairfax, Calif., in 1968. He then started his own company, J.W. Trucking, and established a contract with Lincoln Welders Inc. He was very successful but unfortunately was later forced to sell his business after being diagnosed with cancer. After his recovery, he worked for Enterprise Car Rental until his retirement. He was a kind man who enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. His infectious smile and southern style personality will be truly missed by all who knew him. His passions included vintage cars, boating on Clear Lake, fishing, playing horseshoes, watching sports and traveling in the RV. He was a strong supporter of law enforcement, specifically the California Highway Patrol (CHP), having made friends with many CHP officers who worked with his son, Michael. He often took ride-a-longs, monitored CHP calls and participated in the annual Cops & Rodder's Car show at the CHP Academy. His pride and joy was his father's 1947 Ford pickup, which he and his son restored. We will always love him and treasure the memories we shared, Semper Fidelis. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012, at 11 a.m. in the Abbey Chapel, Olivet Memorial Park, 1601 Hillside Blvd., Colma, CA 94014. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association.