James Rudolph Lovell
On April 5, 2017, the life of James Rudolph Lovell came to an end too soon.
Jim had an infectious spirit that affected those who were fortunate enough to know him. People who knew him remember him as being kind, gentle and loving, with a huge appreciation for life. He had a contagious laugh and irresistible dimples that lit up any room. Jim was deeply loved as a father, a husband, a grandfather, a brother, an uncle, a cousin and a friend.
Manuela and Richard Lovell welcomed their seventh child, James Rudolph Lovell on Aug. 8, 1954, in San Diego, Calif. Their cozy home in El Cajon, Calif., eventually became the dwelling place for eight additional children. A classic middle child, the attention centered little Jimmy, and that magnetic personality followed him throughout his life. Jim found out he had a talent and a love for pole vaulting during his high school years, while attending El Cajon High School. After high school, Jim was awarded academic scholarships to two different Catholic universities, Gonzaga and the University of San Diego before choosing his future alma mater in USD. He graduated from USD with a degree in psychology and a minor in philosophy. Following graduation at USD, he pursued a surfer’s dream, living at the beach with who would become lifelong friends. He met the mother of his children, Teresa Downs, during his time at the beach and they married in March 1980. Jim and Teresa raised their four children in the town of Ramona, just north of San Diego.
Jim started his drafting business, Airmail Drafting Services soon after the move to Ramona.
Jim and Teresa’s home and property became the host to many large family reunions and parties. In 1992, Jim moved his family to Sandpoint, Idaho in search of a slower pace of life. In Sandpoint, Jim continued to find success with his drafting business, designing beautiful homes around Bonner County. Jim also found a passion for serving his community, which he continued to do throughout his days. Jim developed a strong will to help people and was able to put his psych degree to good use by becoming an active parent educator and mentor.
On Feb. 14, 2008, Jim found himself fortunate enough to marry the woman that would be by his side until the end, Susan Edwards. Jim and Susan both shared an appreciation for their community and their church. With Susan, he blended two families and gained two additional children.
Living in North Idaho allowed Jim to express his love for the outdoors, taking full advantage of a variety of activities, including but not limited to golfing, camping, hiking, boating, fishing, biking, snowboarding and snowshoeing. Indoors, he loved hitting the courts, playing racquetball and handball. What he loved most, was the time he spent with his family.
Jim is survived by his wife, Susan Edwards; his children, Camille (Calvin) Fuller, Jamey (Aurora) Lovell, Leslie (Zach) Spohn and Joey (Kelly) Lovell; stepchildren Roy (Miya) Edwards and Lucy Anne Edwards; his grandchildren, Landon and Beckett Fuller, Nicolas Lovell, Maylie and Elliette Spohn; his brothers, Richard, Larry, Don, Ron, Michael, Paul; and his sisters, Cathy, Connie, Terry, Tina, Mary, Margaret and Lynda; in addition, a large population of nieces, nephews and cousins. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Nellie Lovell and Dick Lovell; and his sister, Martha Lovell.
A funeral Mass for Jim will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 11. Following the Mass, a reception for friends and family to pay respects will take place at Laughing Dog Brewery at 2 p.m. A rosary vigil will be on Monday, April 10, at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that instead, you take Jim’s example and donate your time and service to enriching our community.
Family and friends are invited to sign Jim’s online guest book at coffeltfuneral.com.
Arrangements are under the care of Coffelt Funeral Service.