James McKenna was well-loved by several communities. He engaged with all of Marin daily with Marin Ventures, a day program for adults with developmental disabilities. He worked at Mollie Stone’s. He attended church weekly at Christ Presbyterian Church in San Rafael, where he ushered, acolyte, and sang in the choir. For years he volunteered daily at the Terra Linda Swimming Pool. He has walked dogs, delivered papers in Terra Linda for over 30 years, created and sold his own artwork. He played and sang in a rock band, the Rippers, at Marin Ventures. He loved to ride horses at Halleck Creek and took frequent trips with his dear friend Martin to visit a farm. James loved animals and would draw and paint them often. He loved to attend church camp at Westminster Woods.

Everywhere you went with James, people recognized him and said hello. He was such a friendly, kind and social guy; he was loved everywhere.

On January 17, James died while being treated for a COVID infection. We are raising money to for a memorial fund to honor his memory and contribution to his community. Funds will support activities that James was interested in such as kayaking, horseback riding, and other activities that are not typically covered by any program fees. In addition, funds will be set aside for low-income folks at Marin Ventures and Halleck Creek.

All funds will be managed by James’ long-time friends, Ruth Vosmek and Martin Hanken.