James Soares, at the age of 93, joined the Lord on June 20, 2019 at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital. His final few days were spent peacefully surrounded by his family members. He passed quietly during his sleep to be embraced by the Lord.
James Soares was one of 5 children born August 30, 1925. He was the son of Joseph and Theresa Soares. Growing up in Newman, California James would spend time working on engines, whether it be for agriculture or pleasure, he loved working with his hands. One of the jobs that James had in Newman was a projectionist at the local movie theater. One of his jobs involved changing reels during movies. This gave him the opportunity to watch a plethora of movies that were made in 1940’s.
In 1950 James joined the United States Army. His active duty to the United States took him to various locations in America in addition to Europe and Asia. James was stationed at a small island south of Japan called Okinawa. It was there he met his wife, Misako Itosu. They were married on January 3rd, 1962. In 1963 they had their first son, Jackie.
As with most military families, movement was common. James was stationed at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey in the mid and late 60’s. In 1967 and 1968 they had their 2nd and 3rd sons David and James respectively. Thus, James became the family man and a devout Master Sargent for the United States Army. In the early 70’s James was returned to Okinawa with his entire family so that his wife, Misako, could be near her relatives. In 1972, under orders of the Army, James had to uproot his family and take them to Fort Ord, California.
Eventually he moved his family to King City, California to be stationed at Fort Hunter Liggett in 1973. In 1975 James retired from the military with 25 years of service. His services to the military didn’t end there. He worked in Fort Hunter Liggett with a private company that had a contract with the United States Army. He continued working as an Electronic Technician Engineer on various projects. He never returned home to discuss work, so to this day the Soares Family never knew exactly what his father actually worked on.
Within King City James would be involved with the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 1. It started when 2 of his sons joined the Cub Scouts then later the Boy Scouts. When both of his sons were no longer part of the Boy Scouts, his active involvement with the Boy Scouts continued. Based to his involvement, James received an award from the Boy Scouts due to his positive impact on the boy scouts.
In addition, James was an active member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. James helped lead the groups on several occasions as well as being a member. His commitment to the groups had him drive several times from King City to Monterey to participate in meetings.
In 2007, the Monterey County Board of Supervisors exonerated and recognized James for his guidance, leadership, and membership for 12 years with the Military and Veterans Affairs Advisory Commission. James was a devout member of the Saint John the Baptist Church (Catholic Church) ever since he moved to King City years ago.
As a family man, James loved spending his time with his family. He would plan trips that would sometimes involve weeks of family time. Remember, this is prior to any type of dvd player, internet, or even the Sony Walkman. Every now and then he would reflect on those trips and chuckle at the many adventures that occurred.J
ames is survived by his wife for 57 years, Misako Soares and his 3 sons. Misako still resides in King City. His first son Jackie and his wife Terri reside in Rocklin, CA. His second son David and his wife Yumi live in Modesto, CA., while his third son, James, lives in Fresno, CA. James also has two grandsons from David and Yumi. Kenji lives in Modesto, CA whereas Seji lives in Napa, CA.
Donations: All donations and proceeds will go to Saint John the Baptist Church. If you wish to make a donation in the name of James E. Soares please contact Saint John’s at (831) 385-3377.
Rosary: There will be a rosary service at 6:00pm, Friday June 28th at Eddington Funeral Service. 429 Bassett Street, King City.
Funeral: The funeral service for James will be Saturday, June 29th, 11:00am in King City at St. John the Baptist Church. Following the funeral service a Gathering will be hosted by the family right after the funeral services on church grounds. Saint John the Baptist Church, 504 N. 3rd Street, King City.
Burial: The burial for James will be Tuesday, July 2nd, 10am at the Hill Ferry Cemetery just outside of Newman. Hill Ferry Cemetery, 1334 W. Stuhr Rd., Newman.
For any additional information regarding the Rosary, Funeral, or Burial contact Eddington Funeral Services. 429 Bassett Street, King City. (831) 385-5400. www.EFS-Cares.com.
