Obituary of James Loren Messinger

"Jim" Messinger went to be with his Lord on January 28, 2011 while in the arms of his wife, Pat. His sons were nearby and joined in a final prayer for their father. He was born to Howard and Lucille Messinger on March 14, 1931 in Denver, CO. He had two older brothers Howard "William" and David Logan. Jim attended the University of Colorado before enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corp, serving during the Korean War. Upon discharge he fled the snowy and cold Colorado weather and opted for sunny California. His career path led him from being a partner in the engineering firm of Earl Mason and Associates, principal in Pacific Community Builders to his final venture in construction as President and CEO of Steel Building Systems Inc. for 40 years. He was also the managing partner in an investment group, Maranatha Investors, concentrating on land investments in the Oregon area. In the construction field, his first love was building churches while developing several subdivisions, commercial and industrial buildings and business parks. He also built 7 churches in the Northern California area. In Pine Grove, California he achieved his ministry goal by putting his business on hold and building Calvary Chapel, donating his time, energy and expertise toward the completion of this lovely building, working in every capacity from laborer and superintendent to general contractor. Jim was a member of Grace Fellowship Church and the American Legion. He also participated in many activities and lunches with the SIR's group for many years. Jim was a devoted Christian, husband, and father. He has one surviving brother, David. He is also survived by his wife of 42 years, Pat and their 5 children; Michael Clifford Messinger (Beth), Thomas Howard Messinger (Andrea), Michael Edward Moriarty (Leslie), James Thomas Moriarty (Rebecca) and daughter, Julia LeAnn Anderson (Jerry). He is also survived by 13 grandchildren; Carrie Guy (Kevin), Stephanie, Alexandra, Amelia, and Tommy Messinger; Riley, Matthew, Hilary, Conor, and Jack Moriarty; and Spencer, Bennett, and Graham Anderson. Also surviving are 3 great grandchildren; Stephanie, Kate, and Caleb Guy, who was born 4 days before his grandfather's death. Interment will be private. Memorial services are to be held on Saturday, February 5 at 3:00 p.m. at Grace Fellowship Church, 8040 South State Highway 49 in Jackson, CA. His family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Fellowship, P.O. Box 850, Jackson, CA 95642. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting danerimortuary.com and signing the guest book.