David Thomas James, of Vienna, was born October 1, 1926, in Detroit, Michigan, a son of Julius Marvin and Opal Larned (Pelican) James, and departed this life at 12:35 a.m., Friday, March 10, 2017, in the Maries Manor Health Care Center, Vienna. Dave had been failing health for some time and had attained the age of 90 years, 5 months, and 9 days.

In 1928 the family moved back to Missouri where he grew up in Maries County. All eight years of elementary school he attended the Bloomgarden School, and high school was attended in Vienna. Between his Junior and Senior year he worked at Puro MFG. He went back to Vienna and stayed with his Grandmother to finish High School. Following high school he went to work for Curtis MFG Company, Welston, where he stayed for four years prior to moving back to Vienna to work on his Father's farm. A year later he went to work for the United States Government where he worked in defense mapping for thirty-two years. The retirement eligibility was 55 years old with 30 years of service. At the age of fifty-five he retired and moved back to Maries County where he built a house on six acres given to him by his parents. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, woodworking and most anything associated with country life.

Dave was united in marriage on August 20, 1955, in St. Louis to Anna Marie Haller, and to this union, three children were born, Debra and Doug while living on Cecil Place, St. Louis, and Dina while living on Henley Drive, St. Louis.

Those left to mourn the passing of Dave include: His devoted wife of over 61 years, Anna, of the home; one son, Douglas James, Vienna; two daughters, Debra Miller, Vienna; and Dina Miles, St. Louis; two sisters, Mary Kastner and Dolores Hempe; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Marvin on December 17, 1996; his mother, Opal on August 24, 1990; and one brother, Joseph James.
He never believed in any organized religion but believed the world would be a better place if everyone applied The Golden Rule (Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.) This Golden Rule and Mother Nature was sufficient for Him.

The way Dave lived and interacted with others was the best tribute anyone could have for their life. Fond and precious memories will always be remembered in the hearts of his dear family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.