James Russell Simsarian

James Russell Simsarian, 85, was born on January 5, 1936, in Alhambra, CA, United States, and passed away on March 27, 2021.

Even as a young man, Russ had a strong sense of right and wrong and endeavored to live an ethical life. He was an eager cub scout and later eagle scout. As a senior at Alhambra high school, he was nominated to Annapolis Naval Academy and graduated in 1957.

Russ served in the navy for six years before going to Viet Nam in 1963 as part of a cross-branch team of early advisors to the South Vietnamese military. He was proud to serve his country, and that President Johnson read his field reports that detailed the many complications of the war effort.

Returning to the USA, Russ resigned from the navy and earned an MBA at Columbia University. In New York, Russ married a fellow military officer, and together, they had one son, Kristian Russell Thomas, in 1966.

In civilian life, Russ returned to Los Angeles and settled in Arcadia. He was a leader at several consumer and food organizations and found a career home at Pacific Bell/Telesis.

When Russ retired, he served the Arcadia community as a representative of citizen groups, on the board of his HOA, as the resident council president at his retirement home, and he was a nationally ranked bridge player.

In 1995 Russ met his best friend and life partner Patricia Balmot. For 25 years, they traveled together, played competitive games, and enjoyed life. Together they found a spiritual home and community in Arcadia and Glendale's Seventh Day Adventist church.

In his last days, he told his son Kristian "As a child, I dreamed of becoming an important military leader. Now, I am 'Just Russ from Arcadia,' and I am okay with that."

Russ was frequently sought out for advice and friendship. Russ is fondly remembered by many as one of the most ethical, knowledgeable, caring men they have ever met. He was a beloved father, friend, and leader.

Russ is survived by his son Kristian, granddaughter Beatrix, daughter-in-law Cate (Corcoran), best friend Patricia Balmot, and daughter Jennifer and her family.

Russ resided in Arcadia, CA, and is now in the family plot at Forest Lawn, California, with his father, mother, and older sister.