James C Astin

James Astin, Jim as we all knew him, passed away on November 29. Jim gave his whole heart to the world and his loss will leave an immeasurable void. Ever thoughtful and deeply compassionate, Jim never failed to make all those around him feel cared for. Often described as mentor, rock, and hero, he possessed an innate ability to carry others and bring light into their lives. He was a library of meaning and connection, always keeping in touch, writing letters, remembering birthdays, and keeping memories of the past alive.

 Jim was born in 1955 to Kate and John Astin who were his philosophical and political mentors all his life. He was especially close with his mother Kate after his father’s passing, spending long hours discussing all earthly and existential questions, until she too passed in 2011. Jim was also privileged to share this same tender, familial closeness with his younger brother Col. David Astin throughout his life.

 Jim always served others. A member of the US Coast Guard in his younger years and recently a volunteer at the Asian Association of Utah, helping to support the needs of immigrants and refugees. He was always involved in his community, volunteered his time and energy for those in need and made friends wherever he went. A true advocate for fairness and equality, Jim donated to environmental and political organizations he believed were focused on doing good in the world. He was a harsh critic war, destruction and dehumanization, as eloquently demonstrated in several published “letters to the editor”.

 Jim spent his career teaching at Rose Park Elementary where he made lifelong friends of the teachers and staff and no doubt distinct and heartfelt impressions on the kids. He was a teacher and mentor not only in work but in his everyday life. All those who met him were warmed by his humility, compassion and brilliance.

He married Bella Martinez in 1995 and they have spent the decades since sharing every detail of their lives together. A partnership of deep love and mutual admiration, they enjoyed travel, golf, concerts, and kept a close community of friends and family. Jim was a lover of the outdoors, and possessed a deep appreciation for the natural world as well as a kinship with plants and animals, especially birds.

 Though Jim gave his love to all, his fatherly strength and devotion shone especially brightly for his two daughters Rachel and Jenni whom he had with his first wife Connie, now deceased, and for his two grandchildren, Jacob and Dylan.

 Even in death, Jim has managed to take care of everyone. His acceptance, preparation and dark humor has softened his passage and helped allow our minds to accept that death too is part of life. He will be profoundly missed, but continues to live on in the hearts and minds of all those who had the pleasure of meeting him.

 We would like to extend a huge thank you to Jim’s neighbors, Broker and Shauna, the EMS first responder team and the University Hospital staff who cared for Jim in his last hours and made his passing as dignified as possible.

 As he did not want a funeral service, a private Celebration of Jim will be held in his honor.

 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Jewish Voices for Peace, the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance or charity of your choice that resonates with your heart.