James Merlyn Titchenal passed on August 12, 2016 surrounded by his family one week prior to his 88th birthday. He was born on August 21, 1928 in Oakdale California to Jim and Pearl Titchenal. Jim leaves behind his wife of 64 years Patricia Barnes Titchenal. He also leaves his sister, Beverly Haidlen of Oakdale, daughter Stephanie Titchenal Gilkey of Modesto and his son Jeffery M. Titchenal of Lake Forest CA. Grandchildren Michelle Gilkey of Sacramento, Mark Gilkey of Sacramento, James Titchenal of Irvine Ca., Jason Titchenal of Mesa Arizona and Trevor Hall of Los Angeles Ca. Nephews Tom Haidlen, Don Barnes, Larry Barnes, Jason Barnes and nieces Sydney Arnett, Shelly Walker, Jackie Baily and Becky Buffington. All his school years were spent in Oakdale where he graduated from Oakdale High School in 1946. Jim served in the Marine Corps and was called to active duty in 1950 to fight in the Korean War. He returned home from the war and married his sweetheart. He had the Standard Oil Distributorship in Oakdale where he delivered products to local ranchers and businesses. Jim will be missed by all whose life he touched with his loving heart, kind spirit and his ability to bring forth laughter to those around him. He fought bravely to the end and as his doctor told him, “You are one tough Marine.” Services are being held at St. Matthias Anglican Church on Saturday August 27, 2016 at 10 a.m., First and F Street, Oakdale, CA.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

Aug. 24, 2016