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James Roark Obituary
January 20, 1943 - September 27, 2025
Cayucos, California - James M. Roark passed away on September 27, 2025 at Sierra Vista Hospital in San Luis Obispo, CA.
Born January 20, 1943 in St. Louis, Missouri to Hugo and Rosalie Roark, Jim grew up in Southern California and carried a lifelong love of learning. He studied at University of Southern California, Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, Harvard Graduate School and Claremont Business School, always eager to expand his understanding of the world. In 1967 he joined the U.S. Marine Corps where he served as a captain in the 3rd Marine Division in Vietnam. He led Marines as a Platoon Commander and as Rifle Company Commander in the 2nd Battalion 9th Marine Regiment.
For 45 years Jim served as president of Electrol Mfg. Co. in Fullerton, CA before retiring to the Central Coast. Retirement gave him the chance to write; he published a novel In the Spring of the Year and several short stories. He devoted two decades to establishing and running The Vietnam Fund, a charity supporting schools in Vietnam.
Jim was known for his warmth, humor, generosity and extreme love of theater. His wide-ranging knowledge made conversations with him both lively and meaningful... he never met a stranger. He was a lifelong Yankees fan, cheered on the USC Trojans in football, faithfully attended Morro Bay Presbyterian Church and cherished time with family above all else.
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy "Gigi" Roark; his children Lisa De Prudhoe and Jon De Prudhoe of England; Elizabeth Roark of Del Mar, CA; stepsons Jeffrey (Terri) Wilson of Charlotte, NC, and Gregory Wilson of Gainesville, GA; and grandchildren Miranda Wilson, August Wilson, Dylan Thompson, and Smith Wilson.
A memorial service will be held at Morro Bay Presbyterian Church on October 18th at 1:00 PM, with burial in Sandpoint, Idaho on October 21st.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim's name to the charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Roark
Laila
October 18, 2025
Dearest Gigi and your beloved family,
Jim was always kind and truly cared about others. He was passionately interested in the life stories of those around him and he had quite a library of his own to share. He walked in faith and was a people person. I miss seeing him walk the dogs and most of all, his friendship will be missed. And who is going to keep me up to date with the USC football games? Gigi, you and I may have to watch a game in honor of your loving husband - he certainly cherished you and his family.
God Bless You All,
Laila
Cynthia Logan
October 4, 2025
The first time I meet Jim was when he, Gigi, Libby and I attended a dinner in honor of Phyllis and Robert Frank. I didn't know many people; the Roarks took me under their wing. I remember him walking to the Franks' house to visit with Robert and walk dogs...that was quite a hike! As time passed I realized the deep connection he and Gigi shared. Jim would give me a quick hug when we saw each other and I will always cherish them. He was a humble man with a sly sense of humor. I am impressed but not surprised by his many achievements. He will be missed by so many. I believe he is smiling from above because he sees how his Gigi and children are treasured by our community. He left quite a legacy and I shall miss him.
frank g Satterfield
October 4, 2025
Semper Fi, my friend-A life well lived!!!
Max Bennettk
October 4, 2025
Gigi:
Kathy and I want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. It was an honor to work with Jim and the Electrol family for over 40 years. He had a positive influence on all our lives. I always admired him for his strong and compassionate leadership.
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James M. Horn
October 4, 2025
Jim,
It was an honor and a privilege to know you and to have served in Vietnam with you in the 2nd Battalion 9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division. You were a model Marine, my friend. May you rest in peace.
My prayers are with you, Gigi and the family.
Jim Horn, Capt USMC
Semper Fidelis,
Jim
Jay Standish
October 3, 2025
I first met Jim on the bus from DC Airport to Marine Corps Base Quantico in Sept 1967 on our first day in the Marine Corps. Talked along the way and were in the same platoon for OCS and then Basic School, altogether that was 9 months in Quantico, then Vietnam. He was very friendly and a true friend.
Eileen Geil
October 2, 2025
Gigi and Libby,
We are so sorry for your loss. Steve and I won´t be able to attend Jim´s service because we´re flying out of California that day. Please know that our hearts are with you, and please let us know if you need anything. We´re here for you!!
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Funeral services provided by:
Reis Family Mortuary and Crematory - San Luis Obispo991 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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