James Anthony Lerua

July 14, 1952 - November 17, 2012   (60)

James Anthony Lerua 60, of Tucson passed away November 17, 2012 at his home with his family by his side. Jim was born on July 14, 1952 and was very proud to be a fifth generation Tucsonan.  He is now with this father, Gilbert A Lerua and mother, Patricia Ann Dixon. He is survived by his wife, Dori; son, Ian Morton (Nicole); daughter, Lindsey Morton-Tappero (Justin); four grandchildren, Autumn, Dylan, Sedona and Finley; sister, Debbie (Craig); brother, Rob (Joanne); stepfather, Jack Martin Jr. and many nieces and nephews. Jim owned Smith Martin Paint and Body for over 35 years and had many ties to the automotive industry in Tucson. He retired four years ago to pursue this hobby of building a classic VW dune buggy. He also enjoyed trap shooting, playing poker with his buddies and living the Parrothead lifestyle. He cherished his grandchildren and was always involved in their lives. Daddy Jim will always be in their hearts. An avid deep sea fisherman, Jim loved being on and in the ocean or on any boat and water. Most summers found him at Apache Lake captaining his boat while enjoying his family and many friends. He loved Mexico and spent as much time in San Carlos fishing as he could. Jim was a good friend, a generous and kind man who adored his family. He was a character who lived his life his way. He will live on in our hearts forever as the loving husband, father and grandfather that he was. The family would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to the many doctors, nurses and staff of St. Joseph's Hospital and Hospice Family Care for their care and compassion. A Celebration of Jim's life will be held at ANGEL VALLEY FUNERAL HOME, 2545 N. Tucson Blvd. on Wednesday, November 28, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. Come casual/tropical, just the way Jimmy lived his life. A benefit/memorial concert will be held on Sunday, December 2, 2012 from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the Boondocks Lounge on 1st Avenue. "He's somewhere on the ocean now, the place he ought to be; one hand on the starboard rail, he's waving back at me." Arrangements entrusted to ANGEL VALLEY FUNERAL HOME, 520-327-6341. Condolences can be made at www.angelvalleyfuneralhome.com

Published by Arizona Daily Star on Nov. 25, 2012.