Jim was born in Sonora to Nelio and Kathryn (Gurney) Rotelli. He was the second of two sons of this couple. Jim attended St Jarlath Elementary School and Bishop O’Dowd HS in Oakland, from which he graduated. After high school and junior college, he started working for Oakland Scavenger, later becoming a partner. In 1980 he sold his interest in that company and moved to Knights Ferry, where he lived for the rest of his life.

Jim was predeceased by his parents Nelio and Kathryn Rotelli, and his beloved horse Stanley. He leaves to mourn his absence his brother Pat Rotelli of El Dorado Hills and best friend Ed Cassinetto of Knights Ferry. He leaves cousins Brian, Mark, Tim and Paul Arnold, Ed Bandi, Delbert Rotelli and “The Gurney Girls”, Marsha and Linda. He also leaves numerous nieces and nephews in the Gurney, Arnold, Sullivan, Walther and Brandi families.

The family thanks everyone for their condolences. It was Jim’s wish that he be laid to rest in Knights Ferry surrounded by his many friends. Interment will be private. Jim would have appreciated donations going to Stanislaus County Animal Services, or the charity of your choice.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

The Riverbank (Calif.) News

Sept. 30, 2026