James Cownie Pfaff
October 25, 1936 - May 28, 2022 Santa Cruz
James Cownie Pfaff passed away of natural causes on the evening of May 28th surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born in Des Moines, Iowa on October 25,1936 to Dr. Richard O. Pfaff and Mary (Cownie) Pfaff. Jim was the third oldest of eight siblings. His sincere love for his family and faith stayed true with him until his passing.
Born in Iowa and eventually moved and raised in San Jose, Jim was always true to his Catholic faith. Jim attended St. Leo’s grammar school, Bellarmine College Preparatory and Santa Clara University. His love for his country also led to him enlisting in the Army in 1958 to 1961 as a tank commander. Jim retired from State Farm Insurance in 1998 after 38 years and enjoyed his retirement between Palm Desert, Santa Cruz and Healdsburg.
In 1950 he met the love of his life Ann Hobbs at a Bellarmine, Notre Dame mixer and the rest was history. Jim fell in love with his “Annie” from day one and continued to love and honor her after 65 years of marriage. Jim and Ann went on to build a beautiful family which was the center of their universe.
Jim is survived by his wife, Ann and three children, Michael, Casey and Katie (Pfaff) Talty, ten grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Jim is preceded in death by his father, Richard, his mother, Mary and his son, Donald.
Jim is also survived by his loving brothers and sisters, Richard Pfaff, Robert Pfaff , Peggy Schirle, Rooney Blach, John Pfaff, Denny Pfaff and David Pfaff. The bond between Jim and his siblings was so strong and they were always there with him until his passing.
Jim was an active member of San Jose Country Club for many years where he and Annie enjoyed golfing, many lifelong friendships and a social life which included their love for dancing. Jim always lit up a room with his infectious smile, his big blue eyes and his witty sense of humor. A friend and mentor to many, Jim will be truly missed.
A memorial mass will be held on June 21st in the Bellarmine College Preparatory Chapel at 10:00 am. Masks are required inside the chapel. Reception immediately following off-site, details will be provided at the mass.