James Martin Larson

 In 1969 Jim and his wife, Nadjah, came to Ukiah and taught at Ukiah High School. Over the years, thousands of students passed through his math classes. Jim had an exceptional knack of making math understandable.

 For 18 years, Jim was the head varsity football coach. Together with Ed Schweitzer, Jerry Aikman, and Pat Wilson, they brought UHS four North Bay League championships. Having three athletic daughters, he also coached basketball, volleyball, softball, and track in his spare time at St. Mary’s School.

Jim eventually became a counselor at UHS, later the principal at South Valley, and ended his career as the principal of Eagle Peak Middle School.

 During his 23 years of retirement, he enjoyed camping, abalone feasts, fishing, taking cruises, watching his grandsons play baseball, bowling and bocce ball. 

 Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Nadjah, who he loved and adored more than anything in the world. He is also survived by his daughters Leah (Tony) Routon, and Andrea Larson, (son-in-law) Bud O’Donnell, and (grandsons) RJ and Brady Routon. He is preceded by his daughter, Tanya Larson O’Donnell, his sister, Sylvia, and his parents. 

Jim’s greatest loves were his family, friends, and the Ukiah community. Donations can be made to Adventist Hospice or any Ukiah community service organization.