James Ray Barr

July 21, 1948 - December 29, 2017

It is with great sadness to report that James R. “Jim” Barr, age 69, passed away December 29, 2017, after an inspirational 16 month battle with esophageal cancer. He was surrounded by his wife (Christine Amara) and loving friends.

A native of Redwood city, Jim exhibited an undeniable enthusiasm for life.

An avid sports enthusiast/ spectator, wine maker/ collector/specialist, animal lover, and loyal friend, he was “all in”. He was a consistently positive, giving person with a keen dry sense of humor and a huge heart.

He is a graduate of Sequoia High School, (class of 1966). After earning his teaching credential, he began working in wine retail, and became hooked. He spent nearly 30 years as a Wine Specialist at K&L Wine Merchants, enthusiastically conducted a monthly wine tasting group (Wednesday Night Fatally Flawed Palates), and made wine with his best friend David Harvey, Bill Ferguson, Jack Conner, August Dan and Susan Juhl.

He poured his heart and soul into researching and purchasing property in Anderson Valley and planting a vineyard with his favorite pinot noir clones.

He enjoyed cycling, golf, pets, rock music, home gardening, and the outdoors. The joy he found in simple things was infectious.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jim’s name can be made to the Peninsula Humane Society.

Life Celebration/Service TBA.