James M. Jenkins

PORTAGE – James M. Jenkins 60, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2024, with family by his side.

Jim was born on March 11, 1964, in Portage, Wisconsin to Richard and Kay (Westcott) Jenkins.

Jim is survived by his daughter Kimberly (Marco) Jenkins-Contreras, former wife and best friend Lydia (Frias) Jenkins of Bakersfield, California as well as many other friends and relatives. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Keith Jenkins in 2009, Daniel Jenkins in 2021, and sister Joan Jenkins in 2017.

When Jim was 6 months old, the family moved to Santa Susana, California. Jim spent the majority of his life in Santa Barbara, California and was employed by the City of Santa Barbara as a Water Distribution Supervisor for over 30 years. In his retirement, Jim became an avid reader and enjoyed relaxing on his patio where he enjoyed watching and feeding cats, squirrels, birds, raccoons, and an occasional opossum. He was very proud that he had somewhat taught a squirrel to pick up a cup and drink water from it as though it was a human. In 2022, Jim enjoyed a trip to Hawaii with Kimberly and Lydia where he enjoyed the warm water, prime rib, and the easy-going lifestyle. Jim was a kind and gentle soul. His sister once said about him: "Meet him and you will be friends.”

Jim will be missed by so many!

Inurnment is pending and will be in Portage, Wisconsin where his parents and siblings rest.