James Leo Devaney

James Leo Devaney was born July 4, 1943 in Pueblo, Colorado, to John Lawrence and Iris Edith (Scollick) Devaney. He passed away early Saturday morning, December 7, 2013, in Anaheim, California, at the age of 70.



At the age of 3, Jim's family moved to Downey, California. He grew up and went to school in Downey, graduating from Earl Warren High School.



Following high school, Jim went on a mission for the Church of Latter-day Saints. He faithfully served for two years in the South West Indian Mission. Upon his return, he began courting Louise Becklund. Jim and Louise were sealed for time and all eternity on June 26, 1965, in the Los Angeles, California LDS Temple.



Six months after getting married, Jim enlisted in the US Army. He enjoyed his time in the Army and spent 3 1/2 years as a lieutenant in Army Intelligence. His experience had a great impact on his future career in police and security work.



A car aficianado, Jim loved anything to do with cars. He especially enjoyed drag racing and going to car shows. Instrumental music was another of Jim's passions. He played the clarinet and was a drum major. In his younger years, Jim was very involved in concert and marching bands. He had the chance to play for the Queen of England while in high school, and he also directed the army marching band. Outside of cars and band, karate was another favorite pastime of Jim's.



Jim was a truly selfless individual. His compassionate, non-judgmental and caring nature made him a friend to all. He was also very supportive of his family and others. A very happy man, Jim always had a smile on his face.



He is survived by his wife, Louise; children, Erin (Tom) Buffaloe, Adam (Caroline), Peter, Daniel (Amy), Teri (Shane) Zapatka, and David (Krista) Devaney; sister, Jackie (Steve) Noll; 19 grandchildren; and 1 great-grandchild on the way.



Viewing will begin at 10am on Saturday, December 14, 2013, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 535 S. Rio Vista St., Anaheim, California. The funeral service will immediate follow at 11am. Jim will then be transported to Idaho for burial at a later date.