Obituary of James O'Toole

James Kenneth O'Toole, 65, passed away peacefully in the presence of close friends and family on Saturday, December 19, 2008. Diagnosed with colon cancer in June 2008, he fought it unwaveringly for eighteen months. While his body was eventually overcome by cancer, his spirit was never diminished. Those around him were inspired by his courage and strength, a testimony to his faith and his belief in the sanctity of human life. Jim was born on April 25, 1944 in Saginaw, Michigan to Kenneth and Agnes O'Toole. After graduating from St. Mary's High School in 1962, Jim began his lifelong study of economics, receiving a B.S. in 1966 and an MA in 1968 from the University of Detroit. After further studies at the University of Michigan, he lectured at the University of Detroit, University of Eastern Michigan, and Hope College. Jim was as an assistant professor at Valparaiso University in Indiana from 1979 to 1984. Jim received a Ph.D. from Virginia Tech in 1983. Jim was a professor in the Department of Economics at CSU, Chico where he taught since 1984. He was professionally active, authoring publications and papers, receiving numerous grants and honors, and serving as Department Chair from 2003 to the present. Jim referred to himself as a teacher, emphasizing the aspect of his responsibilities that he thought was most important. Students thought very highly of him as a teacher and counselor. Jim married Cathleen Coolidge in 1980 and they have two children. A devoted husband and father, Jim dedicated much of his life to raising his children. He was actively involved in their education. Jim took on many formal responsibilities at their schools, including serving as a member of the school advisory board for Notre Dame School, chairing the Notre Dame Technology Committee, and designing Mercy High School's first web page. He loved spending time with family. He coached his children's basketball and soccer teams and carpooled for their many activities. He enjoyed extensive trips with family, camping and exploring the mountains and coast. He taught his children the importance of hard work and strong character. He was very proud of his children and who they have become. Jim loved to travel and devoted much time to it in his early years. His travels include hiking portions of the Pacific Crest Trail and exploring Europe. In addition, he was an avid fisherman, and loved to spend time fishing the Sacramento River. Jim is survived by his wife, two children, Seamus and Caitlin O'Toole, his sister, Doris Miles of Saginaw Michigan, and three nephews. The family is grateful to the staff at Enloe Hospital for their excellent care. A special thanks is extended to Jim's nurses, Dr. Joseph Mathews, Dr. Brian Courtney, and Dr. Stephen Sterzer for their medical expertise and personal commitment to Jim's health and comfort. There will be a Visitation at Brusie Funeral Home, from 4-6 p.m., on Tuesday, December 29, 2009. Rosary will follow at 7:00 p.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. The Funeral will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Notre Dame School, 435 Hazel St., Chico 95928.