Jim died peacefully at his home in Dallas,Texas on Wednesday,March 25, 2015 from bladder cancer, surrounded by loving friends and family.He was born onJuly 17, 1928 in Chicago, Illinois andraised in Hamlet, Indiana.He attended Perdue University. From 1948 to 1952 he served in the United StatesAir Force, flying in the Berlin Airlift as a mechanic, becoming a flight engineer and earning the rank of Sergeant. In 1955, Jim joined American Airlines (AA) as a pilot, met Ann Quick, a stewardess, and they married in 1969. He retired as a Captain in 1988.Jim loved motorcycles, cars, boats, and collecting and flying antique planes. He helped establish the AA Sailing Club and for decades taught University of Dallas students sailing and marine navigation. He boated often at Grapevine Lake. Favorite activities included sailing and scuba diving in the Caribbean with friends and family.Jim is remembered for his good nature, patience, humor, and genuine love and loyalty for his family and many friends. He dedicated his life to Christ and left this world in great peace.He is survived by Ann, his wife of 45 years; daughter, Mary Jo (Scott) Kern; granddaughters, Lisa (Shadrach) Ludeman, Julia and Elena Kern; son, James Jr.; sisters, Barbara Steindler and Elaine Orr; andnieces and nephews.Interment will be at DFW National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Faith Presbyterian Hospice, PO Box 66067, Dallas, TX 75266.Please send the family condolences and/or share memories on this website.