CARSON, Calif. -- Carl Edward James was born on Nov. 30, 1936, in Great Bend. He was youngest of nine children born to Louis and Alma James. He accepted Christ and followed the path that God laid out for his life. Carl graduated from Great Bend High School in 1954. He attended Kansas State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering in 1958. He also attended UCLA, where he received two master degrees, one in Engineering and Math, 1962, and the other in Executive Management, 1974.

While attending Kansas State University, Carl met the love of his life Jean Marie Ramsey. They were married and from this union four children were born, Richard Earl, Michael, Kenneth Edward and Carolyn Marie. Carl and Jean were happily married for 45 years until her passing in November 2000.

Carl had a very successful career in the aerospace industry. He worked for TRW Space & Defense Corporation for 18 years, where he managed a large engineering organization with 250 technical personnel, developing spacecraft and avionics. In 1982, Carl founded his own company, Cal-Tron Systems Inc., and as the owner and president led a team that developed and manufactured aerospace electronics. His business management and leadership abilities were commended in numerous newspapers, business articles and technical magazines. In 2006 he retired.

Carl was a man with a very kind and giving heart. He believed in the importance of education and positive work ethics and he passed on these attributes to his children. He was a man of integrity who everyone looked up to and sought his advice and guidance; a true sports fan and oh so passionate about his jazz.

But the light of his life were his seven grandchildren, David, London, Joshua, Michelle, Ian, Cameron and Lil Michael. They were his pride and joy. He encouraged them to be the best that they could be and supported all of their endeavors, whatever they did, he was always there. He loved each one in his own special way and was so very proud of their accomplishments.

He was also the greatest uncle anyone could ever have, his strength, love and honor is instilled in their hearts and memories forever.

On Saturday, Jan. 15, our Heavenly Father called Carl Edward James home. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Jean Marie James; parents Louis and Alma James; brothers Alfred, Leonard and Robert James; and sisters Beatrice James and Kathleen Garner.

He leaves to cherish his memory three sons, the Rev. Richard James of Chicago Ill., Michael James of Carson Calif., Kenneth E. James of Corona, Calif., and his only daughter, Carolyn M. Jones of Corona, Calif.; sister Alma Jones of Palmdale, Calif.; two brothers, George James of North Hollywood, Calif., and Bill James of Palmdale, Calif., seven grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and relatives, including sister-in-law Marcella Jones James, Great Bend. Carl was also blessed with many special neighbors, co-workers, and very close friends.