Jim deVarennes

Jim deVarennes, a long-time resident of Pacific Palisades, sadly passed away on September 11 at the age of 62. He lived a full life, leading with his heart and a zest for family, fun, friends and adventure. He cared about people and had an insatiable curiosity about life, pondering deep philosophical questions and driven to understand life and his place in it.

Born to Nancy and Dick de Varennes, he grew up in the Palisades with his two sisters. He attended St. Matthew’s, Paul Revere and Pali, playing tight end for the varsity football team. A skilled athlete, he was competitive on a paddle or tennis court or an expert gliding down a snowy mountain. He was proud of becoming an Eagle Scout, was the parent of one and a Scout Leader.

He opened a cafe on Montana Ave. while polishing his skills as a builder/roofer and contractor and started his own company, Palisades Roofing. A familiar face around town, Jim repaired or replaced countless roofs in his many years in the business.

He spent time with friends and family at the Bel Air Bay and Jonathan Clubs, on the courts, the beach, or the bar. His long-time girlfriend, Jill Young, shared many of his adventures, and he was slowing down his heavy work schedule to make time for extensive travel with her and his three amazing children. He was a devoted and involved father and loved his children deeply. He and his sisters were a bonded trio and lived near each other in the Palisades for most of their lives.

His passion for flying his single engine plane brought him great joy and peace. He was flying free, with Jill, above the bonds of earth on the day he tragically passed.

The outpouring of love and sadness our family has received since this tragedy is a testament to him as a human being. He touched many lives, did many good deeds and was well-loved. He will be missed more than words can express.

He is survived by his three children, Kali, Riley and Griffen deVarennes, his sisters Annie deVarennes and Suzanne deVarennes Norton ( Richard) and Michael, Patrick and Meg Norton. We loved him profoundly and will miss his mischievous grin, good heart and his love.

If you would like to donate in his name: The Condors (condorsquadron.org), Operation Gratitude (operationgratitude.com) or Troop 223 (Boy Scouts in Pacific Palisades).