Pacific Palisades resident James Robert Squire, a residential and commercial painter in town for more than 30 years, passed away on Monday, February 13, of currently unknown causes. He was 59. Jim was born in Los Angeles on March 4, 1952 to Thomas Paul Squire and Betty Jo Hansen Squire. He graduated from Palisades High School in 1970 and UC Santa Barbara in 1976 with a degree in communications. Upon completion of college, he worked in insurance and then in early 1981 he re-established his father’s business, Squire Painting Company, and became a fixture in town. His son, Paul James Squire, will now continue the family business. As a student at PaliHi, Jim was a state champion in pole vaulting and a popular musician at local parties. In his adult life he was known for being a member of the Rolling Clones and playing the part of Keith Richards in performances around the country. He was a member of the Pacific Palisades Presbyterian Church, participating as a Deacon and a Stephen Minister. Jim enjoyed spending his free time playing several musical instruments, including guitar, piano, drums and mandolin. He was a beach-volleyball enthusiast and could be found regularly working out at the Spectrum Athletic Club. He also enjoyed vintage cars, traveling and spending time with his many friends around the community. Jim was an exceptional man whose spirit was carried through his selfless service and commitment to Pacific Palisades. All those whose lives he so generously touched will sorely miss him. Said Roberta Donohue, publisher of the Palisadian-Post: ‘Every year we honor a resident with the Citizen of the Year award and banquet. A group of community members gets together and puts on a musical roast. When Rich Wilken was named Citizen in 2011, I called’Jim and asked him to play Rich and be our lead singer. He was shy about doing the skit, but in the end we all bonded and had lots of fun during our rehearsals. I talked with Jim on Monday, the day he died, and we discussed the new skit for this year’s honoree, George Wolfberg. He was excited to help us out again. Jim was a talented man and wonderful friend.” He is survived by his three children, Gennea Noelle Squire de Torres (husband Francisco), Paul James and Austin James; his sister Patricia Squire Adams; his niece Kelsey Elizabeth Adams; and his aunt and uncle, Jim and Pat Hansen. Services were held Tuesday at the Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, please make a gift in honor of James Robert Squire to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Museum: 1100 Rock & Roll Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44114.
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