Jimmy was diagnosed with leukemia in 1977 and passed away in December of his Junior year at DHS, he was 16 years of age.
Jimmy was a very interesting young man with much promise. He loved to draw and was quite an accomplished artist. One of his favorite topics was the “Super Heroes”. Jimmy had submitted some of his drafts and renderings to DC Comics during his Sophomore year. “DC” responded by suggesting that Jimmy send them his portfolio upon his graduation. Jimmy wrote back to them stating that he might not live that long. That was our Jimmy, talented, intelligent, and pointed.
Jimmy is missed by our entire family and most dearly by our parents, Nick and Carol, who live in Rosamond, CA. Jimmy rests at Joshua Memorial Park in Lancaster, as do too many of our fellow alumni. We would like to thank so many of you for your love, friendship and prayers for Jimmy. Most notably, we would like to give special thanks to Coaches Betty Platero and Jack Jones for their caring, love and support of Jimmy during his time at Desert. It’s been many years since his passing, but your contributions to an appreciative family will never be forgotten. Lastly, we would like to sing the praises of another fellow Scorpion, who has subsequently passed on, Maurice “Marty” Powers. Marty took Jimmy under his wing during their time together at Desert. Marty became Jimmy’s friend, bodyguard and protector. This unlikely duo made for an interesting tandem, Marty the Rebel and Jimmy, the only one of us close to an “introverted Whalen”. Marty will always be remembered in our hearts and prayers.
When remembering Jimmy, remember that what his life lacked in longevity, he made up in quality. He was bright, talented, loved and returned love. He was brave and fought his disease, as an adolescent, like a warrior at a time when most of us were worried about the outcome of Friday night basketball and football games. Jimmy passed away at our home on Bolling Street at Edwards, with our parents at his side. His spirit lives in our hearts and our memories.
Jimmy, You’re the Man!
Tom (76), Kathy (77), Brian (78), Eileen (79), John (81), Cindy (82), Andrew (84).
Cathy, Thank you very much for this very kind thought and equally kind words. I know what you mean about crying and crying….as I’m typing this I’m fighting back tears 🙂 But they are mix of sadness and joy, so that’s not a bad thing. The “Walton’s” have all grown and are in government service throughout the gammit of Federal, State, County & City government. We miss both Jimmy & Kathy (she passed a little over nine years ago), but we’re all closer now as a result and we all still reside in the Antelope Valley. They are still such integral parts of our puzzle with stories and memories recounted consistently throughout the years. Jimmy was a gem and he’s never really far away from our thoughts, even though we lost him so long ago. I often think what a great time we would have had growing up and older together with me and my four remaining brothers. We’ve had a pretty good time of it as it is, but a sixth would’ve been an interesting treasure. Thank you again for your thoughtfulness and keeping the obit (Holy Cow!!!). All of this is so nice of you and I am truly touched. I will pass this message along to Mom & Dad, Eileen and my brothers.
Be well,
Brian
I remember this like it was yesterday. I cried and cried. I still have his obit taped in my yearbook. Looking through all the deaths that have any occurred since I graduated, it’s shocking. I knew so many and remember great times at football games and on campus. I always remember the Whalen family – always reminded me of The Waltons with all the kids. Lol