CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) – A life well lived. For 90 minutes friends and family learned of the 92 years of the life, loves and work of James (Jim) N. Rounsavell.

Jim passed away on March 4 and was quietly and honorably laid to rest at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California. He served six years in the U.S. Army at the end of World War II and in the U.S. Army Air Corps during the Korean conflict.

His service was held at his beloved Citrus Heights Veterans Community Center on July 17, 2021. Evidence of Jim’s deep faith in God was seen and heard throughout the service.

Intermingled with the traditional formal speeches from City Mayor Steve Miller and Matthew Ceccato, speaking for Congressman Ami Bera, to the reminiscing of family, friends, and volunteers, to musical renditions of beloved patriotic songs and Amazing Grace, were the long-honored military traditions which gave Jim his official proper ‘send-off’.

The moving program included all the formal military accouterments with the traditional Color Guard, flag folding and presentations, and a rifle squad firing of three rifle volleys to signify duty, honor and sacrifice. Bagpiper Chuck Jamison opened the service with America the Beautiful and played TAPS following three rifle volleys.

Poems were read, most written by Jim himself revealing his deep love and trust in God, trusting Him in all he did. All speakers marveled at how all his plans just seemed to come together.

In one of his poems, “Walk My Tracks” Jim recounts four events in his life, from 4 years to 40 years, where Jim knew in no uncertain terms that God spared him and another from certain death to ensure Jim would live to accomplish his purpose.

It was evident in Jim’s history as told in the program, the photos and awards on the tables, speeches and his own poetry that all that happened to him in his life led up to and prepared him for his mission in life, to help veterans.

With his wife of 37 years, Jean, they began their formal search to find a way to combine his loves for veterans and golf. After a long process, again he was sure he was led by God, they were able to purchase the old Sylvan Schoolhouse in Citrus Heights in 2013 and his dream took off.

He had established the Veterans Golf Park for Disabled Veterans with a vision to purchase a golf course to be used by veterans with PTSD and certain injuries.

That did not happen but what did was the result of a combination of thousands of hours of phone calls and meetings, establishing relationships with the City of Citrus Heights, trade unions, businesses, volunteers and many others. In the end the old dilapidated building was transformed into what it is today.

Those who spoke all commented on Jim having a voice and presence that commanded respect. With this gift Jim got what he needed from the right people for the job. He first became your friend and found a common ground before asking for what he needed.

One speaker described Jim as “an idea machine, a Pitbull. When he had a passion for something he would sink his teeth in and not let go until it was done.”

Mayor Steve Miller, also mayor in 2013, told the entire history of the Sylvan Schoolhouse up to today. For perspective, he noted Abraham Lincoln was president at the time and the United States was in a civil war. He ended with these words, “If these walls could talk they would say, thank you Jim for mending us, and creating a welcoming place for our veterans and our community. Jim has joined a long, esteemed and notable line of city pioneers, and while he will be missed by all, his impact on our community will be eternal.”

Master of Ceremony for the day Tim Whalen, a veteran outreach specialist at the VA Vet Center said Jim held others including volunteers to high standards because he held himself to high standards.

To end, not surprisingly, Jim had written his own benediction prayer/poem which was read by Pastor Brad Gunter.

Jim Rounsevell’s legacy continues and more is planned for the center by Jean and her team. Volunteers are welcome

All veterans and their families are welcome for a hot lunch every Tuesday and Thursday at 11:00 am.

Jim’s entire Celebration of Life will be available soon, complete with the ‘Walk in My Tracks’ ballad, on the center’s new YouTube channel: VeteransCommuityCenterCH.

The Center website is: veteranscommuitycenterch.com