James “Jim” Sorey, devoted husband, loving father, generous grandfather, and prolific storyteller passed away on June 15, 2020, two days after his 92nd birthday.

Jim’s parents, James Karl and Jennie Belle Sorey, welcomed Jim on June 13, 1928. He was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. At age 18, Jim joined the United States Army where he served in Korea. After his discharge, he returned to Arizona and worked for Standard Oil in Gila Bend, AZ. Jim later joined the Phoenix Fire Department.

While living in Gila Bend, AZ, Jim met and married Angeline Petterson on August 25, 1949. In November 1950, Jim and Angie welcomed their first child, Kay Sorey. The two continued to grow their family and had 3 more children: Jamie, Mark, and Dan. In 1957, Jim and Angie moved their family to La Mirada, California where they would purchase one of the original houses there. It would become his home for the next 63 years where he would live with Angie until the day he died.

After the family’s move to La Mirada, CA, Jim joined the Los Angeles City Fire Department. He rose through the ranks, becoming a Fire Inspector and retiring as Captain. He never tired of relating his adventures as a fireman to anyone who would listen. After retirement, Jim was employed as a Safety Officer for the movie industry for films shot on location with many colorful stories to share.

Jim loved the Arizona desert and fulfilled a lifetime dream of living there when he bought property and built a second home near Wickenburg, AZ. He enjoyed driving his dune buggy and ATVs through the desert with his grandchildren.

He never went anywhere without his signature newsboy cap and very fittingly so since he was rarely without a newspaper at his side.

Jim is survived by his wife, Angie, two daughters: Kay and Jamie (Bruce), two sons: Mark (Pam) and Dan, 8 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandson. He was a wonderful man that was loved by his entire family, including his nieces and nephews. He will be missed terribly and always cherished.

Jim was preceded in death by his brother, Jack and sister, Bette.

Plans for his memorial service are pending.