Lieutenant Commander James H. Kirkpatrick, United States Navy (Retired), passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026, at the age of 88.
Following his graduation from Hamilton High School, James joined the United States Navy Reserve in 1956. During his time in the Reserves, he pursued higher education at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, earning a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering in 1962. In addition to obtaining his degree, he successfully graduated from officer candidate school later that same year. He was on active duty for several years before going to work for the Department of the Navy (Nemisis). He maintained his military status in the reserves and retired after 27 years of service to the US Navy.
James worked with the Naval Ship Missile Systems Engineering Station, also known as "Nemesis," which is part of the Port Hueneme Division of the Naval Surface Warfare Center for 30 years. In June of 2000 James retired to enjoy the hobbies that he loved doing.
James found great joy in the Eastern Sierras, dedicating hours to fishing and cherishing moments with his friends and family. A skilled and passionate woodworker, he crafted meaningful pieces for his loved ones and consistently offered his time and assistance to support friends and family. James also volunteered at the Museum of Ventura County Agriculture, where he and other like minded people would work to restore agricultural equipment. James also enjoyed spending his time with his 2 grandchildren who adored him.James was preceded in death by his parents (Willis Kirkpatrick and Louise Kirkpatrick), and Uncle (Henry Surhoff). James is survived by his wife Patricia A. Kirkpatrick, sons Kenneth (wife) Kirkpatrick, Thomas (wife) Kirkpatrick. James is also survived by 2 grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to Funeral Services to be held Wednesday August 19, 2026 at 11:00am in the BOYKO & REARDON TELEGRAPH ROAD MORTUARY & CREMATION, 15 Teloma Drive, Ventura. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately after at the VFW located at 3801 Market St., Ventura CA 93003 food and refreshments will be provided. Burial with Military Honors and a family service will be held at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, California, Thursday August 20th 2026, where James will be laid to rest.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF), or Disabled American Veterans (DAV).