Obituary

James E. Sabin

It is with both sadness and joy that our family reports the death of James (Jim) Sabin on June 25, 2024. Sadness for our loss, and joy because we believe he is now at peace at home with his Heavenly Father.

Born on January 8, 1937, the son of Verle & Ruth Sabin, he grew up with his younger sister, Verla in Fort Dodge, Iowa. He often shared many fond memories with his children of his childhood in Fort Dodge.

After graduating from Fort Dodge High in 1955, he attended University of Iowa in Iowa City. He served as President of Beta Theta Pi In 1958-59 and graduated in 1959 with his Bachelor’s degree in Business.

Jim loved to say that one of the best things that has ever happened to him was meeting and courting Georgia Paris in August of 1959. She was by his side for nearly 60 years of marriage, until she passed away in January of 2019. Jim bragged about how Georgia was the best wife, mother, nurse, and Christian companion, to anyone who would listen. He claimed that their three children, Jeff, Laura, and Chris were their pride and joy.

Jim was fortunate to find and work for one of the finest companies in the world, when he joined Parker Hannifin in Los Angeles in 1962. After 38 years of service and 25 different jobs in Los Angeles and Irvine, CA; Eaton, OH; Chicago, Ill; and Ogden, UT; he retired in July, 2000 as Vice President of Business Development in southern California.

Throughout all of his moves to various parts of the country there were a few common themes in Jim’s life – family, faith, camping, hunting, fishing, golfing, and serving others. Through his social work in Rotary Clubs, hospitals, churches, colleges and an appointment as Eaton city council member, Jim found ways to be involved in service. Jim loved to travel, and did so for both pleasure and ministry; he and Georgia went to Africa on four separate occasions doing mission work. They also took many golf vacations together; their favorite one being a special resort in Maui.

In Jim’s later years, he enjoyed spending time with his wife, until she passed in 2019, and volunteering at Saddleback Church, both in accounting and as an usher. He could be found on Saturdays at 4pm, faithfully ushering at the door of Saddleback Church. Jim strived to live his life loving others, the way Christ loves us, and also understood his need for God’s grace.

Jim’s favorite Scripture was Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” His strength of character was an inspiration to all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his three children, and five grandchildren.