May 16, 1948 – Oct. 1, 2019

James (Jim) Switzer was a native of Michigan, served in the U.S. Navy as Lieutenant J.G. on a destroyer during the Vietnam War and chose to make California his home when discharged from the Navy in Long Beach.  He attended Loyola Law School while working full time at the Los Angeles Municipal Court beginning in 1973.  He became a member of the California State Bar in 1977, choosing to remain with the Court as a manager.  He headed operations at the San Fernando and Encino branches of the Municipal Court.  After the Superior Courts took over all judicial operations in California, Jim was made head of the Legal Processing Department at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse and Assistant Division Chief in the Civil Division.  He retired in 2005.

A cherished and devoted husband and father, Jim is survived by his wife of 43 years, Sandy, daughters Emily (Nathan), Katherine (Toshiyasu) and Elizabeth, sisters Martha Switzer and Nancy Switzer, nine grandchildren, a large extended family and many wonderful, life-long friends.  He will be remembered as an avid chess player, Jane Austin fan and self-described armchair historian, especially regarding World War II.

A gathering for remembrance and tribute will be held in November.  The U.S. Navy will conduct burial at sea with full military honors.  Memorial donations would be welcomed by the Michael J. Fox Foundation or Parkinson’s Research Foundation. Directors:CrippenMortuary.com