James Richard Wadin was born on August 25, 1946 in Flemington, New Jersey, to Reinhardt Wadin and his wife, Hilda Mansch Wadin. He was graduated from Hunterdon Central Regional High School in Flemington and attended Michigan State University College of Engineering from 1964-1968.

Following graduation from MSU with a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, he was recruited by McDonnel Douglas and moved to Long Beach California.  It was his dream to coach basketball and so a few years later he attended California State University Long beach, earning a teaching credential.  He taught mathematics and coached basketball in San Juan Capistrano for one year before returning to engineering with Endevco, where he excelled in product development and technical sales.  He joined Morgan Matroc in the mid 1980's, where he worked until his retirement in 2002.

Jim remained active in community and high school basketball coaching during and after his retirement.

Jim was baptized in the Methodist Church and later became a member of the Lutheran Church.  Jim loved, and was loved, by the Lord, his family, and friends.

Jim loves his grandkids more than anything else. He was always asking about them. He was a big part in their life and loved every moment he got to spend with them.

In His mercy and grace, our Lord called My dad to Himself on Friday, July 14, 2023, at the age of 77.  His son Andy and friend Jake were at his bedside.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, mother and brother Robert.  He is survived by his son, Anderson Wadin, daughter-in-law Courtney, granddaughter Emeri and grandson Bentley.

In lieu of flowers, take a kid to a basketball game.