James Gould Kersten, 82, died Tuesday, Nov. 20 in Oakdale.

He was born in Modesto to Elgin Kersten, Sr. and Dorothy Mortensen Kersten. His father and brother owned and operated Kersten Pharmacy in Oakdale for many years.

He attended Oakdale schools. He worked as a landscaper. He was a volunteer fireman for the Oakdale Fire District for 40 years, which was one of the joys of his life.

Mr. Kersten was married to Vivian Vierra Kersten in 1970.

He was a very kind man and a gentleman always.

He is survived by his caretakers.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Vivian; parents, Elgin and Dorothy Kersten; and brother, Elgin Kersten, Jr.

Private interment is at Oaklawn Memorial Park.