James Edward Doyle's Obituary
James (Jim) Edward Doyle, affectionately known as "Grumpy" by his grandchildren, passed away peacefully with family by his side on June 10, 2023 in San Diego, California, where he lived for the majority of his 86 years of life. Born January 23, 1937 in Pensacola, Florida, Jim lived a remarkable life that touched the hearts of those around him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jennene Halder, his four children with Gloria Scheving (deceased): Mark (Susan) Doyle, Diana (Alfred) Carrero, Matthew (Heidi) Doyle, and Lisa (Erik) Klipfel, his grandchildren Jennifer (Michael) Stacy, Rebecca (Neel Savalani) Doyle-Savalani, Erika (Steven) Efada, Breanna (Justin) Ganzer, Michelle (Simon Levy) Doyle, Alexander (Shirley Ngai) Doyle, Alexa Carrero, and Cameron Klipfel, and two great grandchildren Julia Levy and Theodore Doyle. As an integral part of his family, he is also survived by his stepchildren Michael (Tracey) Halder and Craig (Marie) Halder and their children: Kaili (Bryan) Butler, Abigail Halder, Gavin Halder, Lucas Halder, and Aaron Halder and grandchild Atticus Butler. He is also survived by his siblings, Fran Cargill, Patrick (Shirleen) Doyle, Robert Doyle, and Thomas Doyle.
Jim's life was marked by his inquisitive nature, sharp intellect and fixation with data. As a tinkerer, who approached life with an insatiable curiosity and exceptional problem-solving ability he was an electronics engineer with a degree in physics from San Diego State University. Jim's passion for education and technology inspired him to lead computer education programs, including pioneering a computer lab at Hickman Elementary School.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim embraced a zest for life and adventure. His children fondly remember the multiple road trips, in which he and Gloria would pile the four of them into their trusty Volvo, in search of motels along the way that met the following rigid requirements: cheap, access to a heated pool, a local culinary specialty, and a nearby Catholic church. Later in life he and Jennene embarked on travels to explore the world together and reunite with their extensive family scattered throughout United States and Europe, picking up memorable keepsakes along the way. His keen interest in nature and technology led him to set up meticulously crafted cameras to capture the nesting, hatching and launching of birds in his backyard, allowing him to witness these moments no matter where in the world he was.
Family held a special place in Jim's heart. He adored his grandchildren and never passed up an opportunity to take them to the San Diego Zoo, supplying them with walkie-talkies, plentiful snacks and a roll of quarters to spend as they desired. He delighted in sharing his wisdom, experiences and nurturing their intellectual growth. Late nights held a particular charm for Jim, who relished in the simple pleasure of indulging in peanut butter chocolate ice cream.
Jim recently celebrated a milestone in his personal journey by receiving his 45-year token from AA, presented to him by his son, Matt, who shared this journey with him. His perseverance and strength inspired many, and his journey towards sobriety was an important part of his life story.
The family welcomes all to attend the memorial service at noon on June 14, 2023 at Clairemont Mortuary to honor and remember the life of James Edward Doyle. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to your AA of choice: Alzheimer’s Association, Alcoholics Anonymous or American Airlines.
Remember, “Don’t chintz on the hot fudge!”
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