It is with broken hearts and a surreal feeling of disbelief that we announce the sudden passing of Jimmy (Jim) David Fish on June 5th, 2017 while hiking on the Ignacio Chavez Mesa in NM. Despite exceptional health, an unforeseen condition led to his collapse with no response to CPR.
Born in San Angelo, Texas on June 2, 1949, Jim grew up on a ranch in west Texas.
Cherished and spirited partner to Cathy Young; beloved son of the late Frank David Fish Jr and the late Zola Katy Fish (Purcer); dear brother to Bill, Steve and Ted Fish; remembered with great admiration and respect by his nephews Scott, Tim (both close friends as well), Brandon, Derrick, and Billy Fish, and nieces Shannon, Lisa, and Karen Fish, Jim was predeceased by his mother and father.
Jim attended school in Sonora Texas where he graduated valedictorian in 1967 and proudly played on the 1966 state championship football team.
He went on to Rice University (B.A. & M. Chem. Eng.), Princeton (PhD Chem. Eng.) with Post Doc studies in Mexico City. Jim pursued a career in energy research at Sandia National Laboratories in California and later, New Mexico, before founding the Anasazi Fields Winery in Placitas with friends.
A man of many interests, and great humor, Jim was inspired by nature all his life, which is evident in his published poetry, his sculptures and photography.
He was a strong environmentalist and not timid in standing up for his beliefs.
The outdoors was a second home to Jim and he was an accomplished hiker, skier, birder, hunter, and photographer.
Everything interested him and his love of creating good wine was paired with his interest in food – he was an excellent cook, both at home and on the trail.
Generous of heart, and his time, he supported scholarships at Rice U., the Conoly and Polly Brooks Fort Stockton Rotary Scholarship Fund and many environmental causes. He supported the arts community by hosting many exhibits and performances at the Winery.
Jim was a leader and a doer and has touched many lives, he has accomplished much and had plans for more – we will all miss him.
Cremation was Jim’s wish and is being followed.
A celebration to honor Jim’s life will be held at the Anasazi Fields Winery in Placitas on Sunday June 18, from 3 to 6 p.m.
Please bring an open heart and a smile to share with friends.
In lieu of flowers please make donations in Jim’s memory to the Conoly and Polly Brooks Fort Stockton Rotary Scholarship Fund (donations to the scholarship fund can be made to First National Bank in Fort Stockton Texas 432-336-8541), or the conservation organization of your choice.
