James “Jim” Edgar Treleaven, peacefully passed away on December 8, 2023, at the age of 62 at MarinHealth Hospital, concluding a valiant three-and-a-half-year battle with a rare lung disease.
Jim was born on December 31, 1960. He was adopted at birth by James and Phyllis Treleaven and raised in Los Gatos, CA.
His childhood was marked by the adventures of Boy Scouts, playing various team sports, hanging out with the neighborhood kids, and excelling in academics. Upon graduating from Los Gatos High School, his extraordinary intellect secured him a coveted spot at the esteemed Annapolis Naval Academy. However, within the inaugural year, Jim discerned that the Air Force was a better fit. Throughout his enlistment, he not only dedicated himself to military service but also achieved the remarkable feat of earning a master's degree in electrical engineering – widely regarded as one of the most formidable disciplines within the field. His distinguished career in the Air Force, culminating in retirement as a major, showcased his dedication to service and leadership. After retiring from the military, Jim enjoyed teaching math and physics at local high schools.
Beyond the confines of his work, Jim reveled in the beauty of the outdoors. Camping, hiking, and cycling were not just hobbies for him; they were avenues through which he shared his profound appreciation for nature with family and friends.
Jim will be remembered for his unwavering faith in God and his deep devotion to family. His impact extended far beyond familial bonds, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he touched. Whether engaging in spirited conversations about politics and religion, assisting a student in unraveling the complexities of a linear equation, enjoying a cold beverage while playing frisbee, or crafting a delightful dinner, Jim radiated warmth and kindness. He will also be remembered for asking his daughters’ spouses hard hitting questions when they asked him for his blessing!
Jim is survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Diane Treleaven, with whom he created a loving and supportive home for their blended family. His three children, Miranda (Myls) Treleaven, Ian (Shawna) Treleaven, and Traci (Jordan) Wheeler were the pride and joy of his existence. Jim’s love extended beyond blood, embracing his three stepchildren, Melissa Mayes, Melody (JB) Elskes, and Matt Abreu, as his own. He cherished his relationships with his children-in-law, Geoff, Shawna, Myls, JB, and Jordan, recognizing them as integral parts of his expanded family. As "Papa J" or "Gwampa," Jim relished the role of grandfather to his three adoring grandchildren, Mina Chowdhury, Rylee Treleaven, and Ezra Treleaven. His sister, Alison Treleaven, and brother, Jeff Treleaven, shared countless memories and milestones. In addition, his stepsiblings, Eric (Deborah) Knight and Katy (Mike Cordis) Knight, and stepmother, Sue Treleaven, seamlessly blended into the fabric of his extended family. Jim was preceded in death by his loving parents, father James Treleaven, and mother Phyllis Treleaven and stepfather Franklin Shaw.
The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional nurses and staff at NeuroRestorative in Fairfax, CA, for the unwavering and compassionate care bestowed upon Jim during the last 2 1/2 years of his life.
A memorial service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held on April 26, 2024, where he will be interred with full military honors at 10:00 am at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery (5810 Midway Rd, Dixon, CA 95620), followed by a church service at Covenant Community Church (3870 Alamo Drive, Vacaville, CA 95687) at 11:30 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Red Cross, in honor of Jim E. Treleaven.
