James W. Naumann Jr., 86, of Mission Viejo, California, beloved father, husband, grandfather, brother and uncle died peacefully at home on August 20, 2013 from complications of COPD. He was born on December 7, 1926 in Manchester, New Hampshire to James W. Naumann Sr. and Mary Margaret (McGinity) Naumann.

Jim grew up in Binghamton and Buffalo, New York and had many fond memories of the family summering in Jamestown, NY. His family moved to San Diego, California where he graduated from St. Augustine High School in 1944. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps proudly serving in the South Pacific for the remainder of World War II.

Following the war he settled in Los Angeles and began a 45 year career in the construction industry as a member of the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters. He married Betty (Bet) Jean Juden on July 2, 1949. In 1950, as a member of the Marine Reserves, he was called to active duty to serve in the Korean War. Leaving his wife and baby daughter behind, he bravely fought in the Inchon Invasion and the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir.

On his return from Korea, Jim continued his trade as a plumber in the Santa Monica, California Local 545. He served the union as Business Agent and Business Manager of the Local as well as president of the Southern California Pipe Trades District Council 16.

Nothing gave Jim as much joy as traveling with Bet in the string of motor homes they owned through the years. They explored much of the US & Canada delighting in time spent with family and friends. Jim was active in the Boy Scouts of America, a member of the Orange County Chosin Few Chapter, Elks Club, Knights of Columbus and a leader in the Society of St. Vincent De Paul at Santiago de Compostela Parish in Lake Forest. In retirement he became a skilled painter, woodworker and an occasionally successful golfer.

Jim is survived by his daughter Kacey Naumann-Baker and Joe Baker of Laguna Niguel; son James W. Naumann III and Marian (Connor) Naumann of Solana Beach; grand-daughter Stephanie C. Naumann; sister-in-law Sue Naumann of Mission Viejo; dear friend Helen Patterson as well as many other family members, friends and his faithful dog "Barney." Jim was predeceased by his loving wife Betty in 2002; brother Richard Naumann of Mission Viejo; brother Robert Naumann of Hemet; nephew Thomas A Naumann; niece Margaret (Naumann) Thorpe.

A vigil and Rosary will be held Thursday evening, August 29 at 7:00 PM at O'Connor's Mortuary, 5301 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Hills, CA 92653. A memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday August 30, 2013 at 10:00 AM at the Santiago de Compostela Catholic Church, 21682 Lake Forest Drive, Lake Forest, CA 92630.

The family is very grateful to physicians, nurses and caregivers of Mission Internal Medicine Group, Mission Hospital, and Accent Home Health for their help and kindness during Jim's illness.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations to: Society of St. Vincent de Paul, c/o Jackie Shaw, Santiago de Compostela Church, Lake Forest. For more information please contact jackieshaw714@yahoo.com. If flowers are preferred please send to O'Connor's Mortuary.