JIM NETZEL passed away on December 15, 1999. He had lost his parents and sister, Beverly Netzel Creel, several years before, but left behind two nieces, Lori Creel Porter and Amy Creel. Jim died of occupational induced lung cancer at the age of 53.

Jim lived in Houston, Texas, most of the 30 years that he worked for Continental Airlines. He had several interests, including playing softball and refinishing furniture, which he did with loving care and beautiful natural finishes. He was also an avid fan of the Bull Riding National Circuit. Perhaps his most memorable legacy was his “true heart” and loyalty to those who were his friends, especially his lifetime friends of the Class of 1965.

Jim had no children and was never married. The following thoughts that Sue Pittman McPeak shares may explain Jim’s decision to remain single………

“Jim spent the first few hours of mine and Wayne’s marriage watching me on a shopping binge. Jim was the best man at our wedding 37 years ago. One would remember that because, you see, our wedding took place in Juarez, Mexico. Jim stood up with Wayne and Rita Wilson Mosley was my matron of honor. It was a wedding to never forget. We waited until after siesta, until all the babies were christened, and until the Padre’s secretary could come and interpret the ceremony into English. Finally, we were married and back in the car and on the streets of Juarez heading home. In those days, Juarez was a fun place to shop, so at every slowed pace in the traffic, Rita and I jumped out of the car and into the shops. From the back seat, Jim said to Wayne as we once again dashed into another shop...

‘You might want to think about that guy’s offer of a quickie divorce before we get to the border.’ He was our best man for life.”