CommunityBuzz! - R.I.P Jim, magic111, my dear friend

Just got a text from Jerrie. He had a heart attack while running last night and never came to.

I am sad beyond words now, still in shock.

:( RIP, Jim.

Jerrie, I'm so sorry!!

Very shocked and saddened to hear this news. Thoughts are with Jerrie at the moment.

:eek:

:(


soo sad. thanks for letting us know. he was a really great guy - he'll be missed.
my thoughts are with his family ...

Condolences to his family and loved ones. :(

Ive heard and Im in total shock.

My condolences to dear Jerrie. Jim/Magic is a gentleman.

I was in San Francisco last weekend and spoke to Jim. We tried to meet up in Novato but he was exhausted from his just returned trip.

Jim rode on BRT 1 and was returning this June. :(

Jim loved sweets. Make sure you enjoy something good today. Jerrie, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.

Dan

Very sad news. He will be missed.

So very shocked. So very sad.

Rest in peace, my friend.

Very shocked. RIP

WOW! Such tragic news. You'll be missed, Magic111.

Very sad news to hear this morning. May he rest in peace with eternal upgrades.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family,
Tyler

So tragic :( Sad, sad sad.

Jim has been an invaluable member of FT and the American AAdvantage Moderator team.

But more, Jim was a courageous and indomitable friend (and a fiendish flyer!) I last enjoyed dinner with Jim in London earlier this month, and as the inveterate traveler he was, with us living ~100 miles apart, he arrived in London via NRT and DFW, returning home via JFK to meet up with fellow mod dstan.

Many of us will miss Jim's perpetual smile and twinkle in his eyes, take-it-easy views, sometimes quirky dry humour, his referee's point of view to illuminate all positions before rendering an equitable opinion, his resilience. The Jim we knew gave of himself until there wasn't much more to give, at which point he dug and found even more to give.

His soul is free to travel unbound; may his spirit sow his joie de vivre and peace wherever he may roam.

In the history of FlyerTalk, in the history of our corps of volunteer Moderators, in the history of the unknowns behind a keyboard who become friends and in the history of those who have earned my utmost and most personal respect — Jim/Magic111 is one of those that did make a difference for all those who call FlyerTalk their base station for miles, points and general travel information. The number of times I recall great conversations with Jim of reason and valuable contributions toward the success that is FlyerTalk reaches well into the double digits. His particular passion for the right thing for all the visitors to the AAdvantage forum and beyond still guides me today and will forever.

This is a man whose time clearly was cut too short. This is a member whose contributions are so imbedded in the mantra of FlyerTalk for wanting to help others, that he will always be part of the history that will be written for FlyerTalk.

We are all here for his memory today, tomorrow and for every day after. I am truly quite saddened by this news, FlyerTalk has truly lost a dear, dear friend.

His last activity (according to his profile) on FT is showing at 503PM yesterday. Even though it was a not an expected thing, FT was still on his mind right to the very end.

Jim was a good friend of mine and he and I shared many a conversation on how to make FlyerTalk a better place.

I'm shocked beyond belief over this. My condolences to his family.

I've traveled on and off with Jim over the years. Two weekends back we did 4 days in DC, flying together to and from. We spent 6 hours at the Newseum, his first time there, and he had a wonderful time. I know he was still refereeing soccer at the high school level as he frequently spoke about the workout he would get on the field.

I thought he had many years ahead of him. Just in shock.

Tom in Madrid

So sorry to hear this, he will be missed greatly. My condolences to Jerrie.

It is with extremely heavy heart that I add my condolences to Jerrie and Jim's family.

It's funny how the internet works... Even though I've only met Jim once in person, I still feel so connected to him as I've "worked" with him every day for over a year as we try (sometimes successfully, sometimes unsuccessfully) to make the AA forum a fun, productive, and friendly environment for all FTers. I've learned so much from him and consider myself lucky to count him as a friend.

His wit, his passion, and his spirit will be sorely missed.

I last saw Jim in Las Vegas. He was "treating himself". I am glad he got to do that.

I have not seen Jerrie since either Paris or Maine - but my condolences go out to her

Jan

I only met him once or maybe twice in person, but interacted with him a fair amount over the years on the AA forum when I still flew them. May the memory of him be eternal.

I am deeply shocked and very sad at this news.

My sincere condolonces to Jerrie and Jim's entire family. May he rest in peace, for in our memories his warmth, generosity, humor and kindness will surely live on.

magic111, along with his wife Jerrie and rudi, were the first ever Flyertalkers I met, over 10 years ago. We've since met on many joyous occasions. When I last saw Jim in Spain last October, I reminded him that it was he who introduced me to the term "FSF" - for flour, sugar and fat building our shared passion, great deserts.

He will be kept in sweet memories.

Very sad news indeed. My condolences to his family.

I was fortunate enough to have bumped into Jim at a couple of FT Do's and am richer for the experience. Being a new Mod. I will also miss his insights and voice of experience.

FT is poorer with his loss. RIP, Jim. :(

I don't have any words except I am shocked and sad. jim and jerrie and bob and i spent many happy hours together. i am so sad now to have missed the chance to have dinner last week.

Hearing about Jim has really hit home with me, as I am honored to have known him and be a friend and colleague of his.

I was looking forward to seeing him again in October.

My condolences go out to Jerrie and the rest of Jim’s family.

Thank you for the memories, Jim. I am deeply saddened to learn of your departure from us. May you rest in peace...

I am shocked and saddened beyond words. My condolences to Jerrie.

Like others I am totally shocked and saddened. My condolences to Jerrie. Jim, you will be missed.

Frannie and I are greatly saddened by this news. Our thoughts are with Jerrie.

I wish to extend my condolences to Jim's family and friends. I did not know him for very long. As a longtime lurker and recent poster, our encounters have been few and brief. One of his final acts, as it relates to FT, was to allow for the creation of the current AA Promo Code thread. This may seem like a small and insignificant act; however, thousands of FT'ers have since benefited from its creation.

I know that Jim had made a lasting impact on an untold number of people on and off the interwebs. Among the last words he would impart on me: "It is not a good idea to confuse the referee. I am already confused enough." It is a phrase I have since adopted at work when mediating between parties.

I will miss his presence, spirit and wit in this forum.

I do not know Jim or Jerrie and do not fly AA, so I haven't come across Jim in the AA forum. However, I am a sports official at the high school and college level, so I'm sad to have lost not only a FTer and someone who seems to be a great person, but one of my own as well.

RIP, Jim, and condolences to Jerrie, their family, and to everyone here who counted Jim as a friend.

I met Jim at the Alaska Cabbage Do and enjoyed talking to him. RIP.

Heartfelt condolences to Jim's family. He will surely be missed.

RIP Jim, may you find a large soccer paradise up there to referee. It was always a pleasure to talk to you. Very sad to see you go. :(

I received this terrible news this morning with the rest of the AA Mod team and am still very much in denial about it.

I met up with Jim several times over the years on his travels through NYC to visit his family, and always enjoyed his love for travel and his perspectives as a soccer referee. He was generous with his time and knowledge, and early in my days as a moderator, he graciously gifted me two systemwide upgrades for a transatlantic trip. His contributions to the AA Forum were major and massive, and we will sorely miss his decisive insights behind the scenes.

I last had the chance to spend time with Jim over coffee just two weeks ago, on his way back from London. As a true FlyerTalker, he'd taken a circuitous route, exploring along the way. He even decided to try my local RewardsNetwork favorite, although he later told me that it might have been a bit much for his jetlagged stomach.

Condolences to Jerrie and the rest of Jim's family. We'll miss you, bud. :(

Jim and I met on more continents than perhaps any other person in my life other than my husband. He'd be sitting there with his FlyerTalk cap so that everyone could easily identify who he was. Just a few weeks back, he got in touch to get more FT tags to hand out on his travels. He had such zest and energy for travel and for life.

I've seen his wife on almost as many continents, and can't imagine the hole in her life. He loved his son and adored his grandchild. My heart goes out to each.

We were fortunate to have him as a mod on the AA forum the past few years. He loved working with the 4 Js. He brought his wisdom as a soccer referee to the forum and we were the better for it.

We will miss you, Jim.

I am so sorry to hear this! Makes me very sad! RIP Jim!

I just met Jim for the first time last month. He was seated next to me in F, saw my FT & MP tags, and stuck up a conversation with me. As a recent convert to AA, I learned quite a few things about AA travel during our flight together.

I wish I had been blessed to know him for longer. May he rest in peace.

Having shared some off-duty moments with Jim and Jerrie both, I'm shocked and deeply saddened by this news. May the family and his many, many friends find solace in the special memories of this extraordinarily wonderful man who loved his family, life, travel and helping others.

Very sad news indeed! What a great loss for the FT community. First met Jim
at the Puerto Rico Do in 2007, and at a number of subsequent event. Always
had a very positive attitude and great humor.

Condolences to Jerrie and family.

Wow! I am in shock and totally heartbroken :(

My condolences to Jim's family and may this time of incredible sadness at least be filled with the knowledge that he was loved by so many

Heartfelt and sincerest condolences to the family. Very shocked and saddened to read this.

What a tragedy. Jim's passing is so shocking. I am sad beyond words. I was pleased to have spent time with him and he was always a pleasure to be with. My heart goes out to Jerrie.

I posted over at the AA forum, but I thought this piece of memory was also fit for this thread in CommunityBuzz.


It brings me great sadness to hear this news.

I had the occasion to meet Jim a few years ago, as part of the Anchorage Cabbage DO. During the second part of the trip, he told me, "when you are old, never pass up a chance to piss," which was very much the advice to heed, consider that we were on a 6 hours road trip back from Denali National Park, with limited breaks.

Jim, I will also heed the first part of your advice about "when you are young, never pass up a chance ..."

Very grim news, RIP.

Very sad news indeed. My condolences to his family. Like many others here, I would run into Jim from time to time at various FT events. He was a great storyteller, as well as a kind and compassionate person. This is a great loss. RIP Jim.

I sat next to Jim at my first mod Do, and he was always calm and relaxed, even when there were some heated discussions going on.
He will certainly be missed on Flyertalk.:(

My condolences to his wife and family.

Such a terrific guy. I always looked forward to talking with him and hanging out when we crossed paths. I'll miss him. :(

Wow, sorry to hear! :(

Very shocked and sad. :(

Even though I don't know magic111 but I always think he is a wonderful person and model mod whenever I read his posts and contribution on FT. So sorry that I will never have the opportunity and honor to interact with him in person.

RIP, magic111!

So sad. While I had my disAAgreements with Jim we both shared a passion for travel and everything FT has done for us. Last time we saw each other was at a marvelous dinner in Sitges, celebrating the wedding of two FT'ers! My thoughts are with Jerrie. May he continue to inspire her wonderful art!

Sjo very very sorry to hear about the death of Jim/Magic111.....my deep condolences to Jerrie.

Have been at many DOs with Jim and Jerrie....Jim was a very handsome man and alot of fun to be with. Here's a good wine (even Tiger Beer) toast to you in Heaven, Jim.

Wow... such sad news hear. Condolences to Jerrie. :(

I was fortunate enough to have bumped into Jim at a couple of FT Do's and am richer for the experience. Being a new Mod. I will also miss his insights and voice of experience.
+1

RIP Jim.

There are no right words at this time but I am sending my sincere concolences to Jerrie and the family. He was always one of those people who made every encounter a happy one.

I first met Jim about 10 years ago at one of Old Gold's Tucson gatherings -- Newself was there as well. :(

I bumped into Jim again a couple of years ago at SIN Do.

Very sad. :(

My heartfelt condolences to Jerri and his family.

I had the pleasure of dining with him from Paris to San Fran and at many of the Moderator Do's. A fun-loving guy who also advised and helped me with some of my health issues - very caring, concerned and sincere.

FT was a better place because of him.

I'm just shocked beyond words.

Jim shared in Community several years ago after his son had been injured in Iraq. He saw him for a few minutes as he was in transit from Germany to Hawaii via California for recuperation. His love for his family brought tears to my eyes then and again today. Most of the report was of his efforts to get to his son as quickly as possible. He closed with:

OK thanks for following along with me to here. Those of you who have met me know that I can get kinda long winded and especially when any emotions are at a critical level. I will state emphatically I LOVE FT for what I've learned here over the years about travel and more importantly last minute travel.

Thanks to FT is that with what has been learned here I realized that I had access to miles if neccessary to take last minute flights if neccessary. But even more importantly my son-in-law and I were able to find last minute flights on UA that left this morning for less than $300 sfo-hnl and his mother and sister are on the flights. About $500 less than what they will be starting tomorrow for the next two weeks.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/636013-mission-also-thanks-ft.html

I am shocked to hear this sad news.

He was on my first Do back in 2004 and I met him several times. It was always a pleasure to talk to him and not always the topic where miles and planes but also his experience in many fields. It is sad to see him go and we will miss him.

My condolences go out to Jerrie and his family.

Such horrible news. This really makes me sad :(

In my years as Flyertalk moderator, I loved talking with Jim about soccer and I was fortunate to meet him many times.

Such a classy guy. Jim, you will be sorely missed, I can't believe you're gone.

My condolences to the family.

Such sad and untimely news. I'm fortunate enough to have met Magic/Jim a few times and learned a lot from him. Heaven gained another wise soul last night... Rest in peace...

RIP Jim

So sad to hear this tragic news. It was a pleasure knowing him, over the years.

I first met Jim (and Jerrie) at a Dus Do many years back. Jim was a wonderful person, passionate about soccer, travel, and his family. I am so sad, such a great man. My sincere condolences to Jerrie.

As I've said in a couple other threads I only met Jim but once but he struck me as a very nice and intelligent man that I was left with a great impression of. Of course I've appreciated his contributions on the AA board for years, I wish I'd known him better.

I do know what wherever he is, he's been granted Lifetime EXP. Safe travels, sir, this side or the other.

Jerrie and Jim not only were participating at every Düsserdorf-Do, they also showed up at every of my SFO-Dim-Sum-Does (on Sunday 10am mornings at the Fook Yuen, 195 El Camino Real @ Victoria Ave).

They did also gift me and Gisela when visiting us at our home away from home at Wengen with wonderful paintings from Jerry she made from the Jungfrau Region (4 such originals decorate now our Chalet here), and Jim did honour me with an official US soccer referee coin!

Very sad we are indeed, but also happy to have know him and have shared great moments together.

Rudi (and Gisela).

I am so saddened and shocked right now. I met Jim for the first time at a London Do many years ago, he was standing outside the restaurant waiting for this straggler to arrive with the aforementioned FT hat on.... he and Jerrie soldiered on through a couple of my very rainy Maine Fall Foliage Tours...he also gave me a guided tour of San Francisco one day during a mileage run I was on...he was truly a wonderful person and will be missed. If you are reading this Jerrie please accept my condolences.

Rest in peace my friend.

Here's a YouTube video of Jim welcoming a large group on FT'ers on a boat ride at a London DO several years ago:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jagN42Ex_4

I think this will give folks who hadn't had the privilege of meeting him an idea of what a great personality and sense of humor he possessed.

I first met magic111 in at the OzFest in Cairns three years ago and again in Adelaide the next year.. A really nice guy and great to talk to with a wry look on things ...

It is sad to find of his passing.:(

Hearing of this now. Wow, a very sad wow.
Jerrie, my thoughts are with you. I shall go find the very best root beer in Tokyo today in Jim's honor.
RIP Jim

I am in shock, sad to hear the news.

Condolences to Jerrie and family.

I'm also really shocked & saddened by this news. Over the years, I've met Jim at various FT events, and always enjoyed talking to him. I last saw Jim at a FT lunch in January, and chatted about various discount airport parking possibilities - he was looking forward to many more long trips. My sincere condolences to Jerrie and his family.

I am sad to hear the news of Jim/Magic111 passing. :(

I met Jim few times at couple FT DO's. He had a great sense of humor, great smile and energy. He and I would talk about travel, where he has gone etc. Along with healthy chats about both AA and DL at the DO's.

RIP Jim. My condolences to Jerrie and the family.

I feel terrible for all of you who knew him personally; I too enjoyed his posts as a lurker in the AA forum from time to time.

As many of the mods have pointed out who posted previously you all have lost a colleague and a friend. I have often noted to myself how some of these seemingly distant relationships become so much a part of our every day lives in a very subtle way; their absence is acutely felt in a sometimes surprising way.

Hope you're able to support one another in an appropriate if virtual way, and indeed I hope his family is surrounded by people that love both them and him as they struggle to cope with the suddenness of his unscheduled departure.

I found out about this a couple of hours ago and am still in shock. Jim was a wonderful, warm, friendly man who had a depth of wisdom to him that I have rarely seen.

Many above have spoken of the twinkle in his eye, and I'll echo that--he was a pleasure to be around, with his wit, wisdom, good humor, and slightly mischievous smile.

I had the good fortune to spend three days with Jim in Denali, Alaska when I hosted about 10 FTers on a trip there. I drove and Jim occupied the front passenger seat of the van, and we shared a lot of talking over the course of the five-hour-each-way drive. I met him in passing a few other times and ended up splitting a hotel room with him in BOS last year, which was the last time I saw him. I was looking forward to our next meeting, which I am sad will now not happen again on this earth.

Knowing him, though, he's already standing next to God telling him how to run the universe using a referee illustration. :)

Here's a YouTube video of Jim welcoming a large group on FT'ers on a boat ride at a London DO several years ago:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jagN42Ex_4

I think this will give folks who hadn't had the privilege of meeting him an idea of what a great personality and sense of humor he possessed.
It was at the London Mega Do I first met magic and Jerrie... good memories.

Today we lost one of our dear friend and also one of AA guru. I woke up very early in Tokyo to go to Tsukiji Fish Market for Tuna Auctions, and while waiting for +1 to get ready I read about the passing of our friend Jim aka Magic111.

We have the opportunity to meet Jim during our SFO's and the last one we met was one of AA MR SFO-ORD in Jan, Jim as always love to tell story and teach greenie like me on dAArk side, he was more than kind showing me the rope on dAArk side, telling me what is the best way to get cheaper route, etc. I wanted to ask him how he did the FD on AA via email, but work and other issue make me forget and delay sending him the email.

Hi Jim in heaven, when you get this P.M. please tell me how did you do it... :)
We will sure miss your generosity and always have FT tags with you to hand out. I am carrying your torch on that too... FT tags and also MP tags for me :)

God Bless your soul and RIP my friend.

This is such sad news. I have fond memories of meeting up with Jim and Jerrie at the Hong Kong Do in February 2004. Ironically I am in Hong Kong now and was over near Sheung Wan yesterday and I was commenting to my friend that this was the first time I'd been back in the Sheung Wan area since my visit in 2004.

Jim we will miss you dearly in the Bay Area and may you RIP.

Jerrie, if you need anything we will be here for you.

I had the privilege of meeting Jim ,,he actually was the 1st FTer I ever met...he gave me my luggage tags...condolences to his family and friends...AA has a permanent 1st Class Flyer!! Magic111 you are a great man!! Thanks for the privilege of meeting you!!

I had the pleasure of going on two trips with Jim/magic111. The most recent one was last years BRT where we shared a room. Anyone who met Jim knew he was a great person. He will be missed by many.

Wow, I heard the news at a Flyertalk dinner tonight in WAS. Such terrible, terrible news.

I usually ran into Jim every year, at one DO or another. Despite his hard fight, he always had such a positive, upbeat outlook on life. I know how much he loved his family, how close they were. I can't imagine what they're going through right now.

Rest in peace, Jim.

I had the pleasure of going on two trips with Jim/magic111. The most recent one was last years BRT where we shared a room.

That was also the last time I saw Jim as we both got off on the Manhattan side of the Brooklyn Bridge somewhere in Chinatown and were walking in the same direction back to our respective hotels after our little bus breakdown delay at the end of a fun day.

His warm welcome after I recently became a moderator was also so nice and brought a smile to my face and after the sadness at his passing goes I'll think of Jim and smile.

I remember that night very well. Jim introduced me to a lot of Fters during that trip. His daughter also attended the Soup DO the day before the BRT.

We are both so very sorry to hear of this.

Jim was the person responsible for giving and naming the Brooklyn Reality Tour. At the time, I called it the Brooklyn Tour; but after the Kramer Reality Tour on Seinfeld, Jim decided that Brooklyn Reality Tour had the right ring to it. @:-)
==============================================

Jims comments from the BRT last June...

OK I do have some thoughts to expend but anyone who desires can put them into the circular file.

Dan picked me up at my hotel before noon where I had encamped a little after midnight after arriving from the west coast. This meal was breakfast for me and in the scheme of the planning for the event Dan related that he thought the big meal ought to be the mid-day meal (breakfast time for left coasters) and the smaller meal in the evening. I now disagree. It seriously cut into my appetite and arriving at Teena's ordered one charlotte russe and it was enough.

So put my vote down for a pizza slice or a nathans for lunch. After all whats a BRT without room for FSF.

BTW thanks to AA and their new one way pricing I was able to get a one way to NYC, purchased for $129+ from sfo about a week ago. After Dan dropped me off at the airport I logged in and low and behold they had one ways from JFK to SFO on Monday morning for $129+. As someone upthread posted I also had only been seeing RT fares far north of $500

Jim posted this last year. We did some scouting out at a restaurant under consideration for BRT. I didn't have to break his arm to come with me. Charlotte russe was his favorite bakery concoction in Brooklyn.

I've alerted Jerrie to this thread.

I am sad to hear this. I met magic111 on brt 12. My condolences to his family.

I was privileged to work with Jim on the TS&S restructuring project in mid-2001, and we talked a while in person at a recent moderators' meeting. In this short time he became one of my favorite people on FT, always calm and objective. When he put forward his opinion, it made so much sense that you could never disagree with it.

I'm sure he was just as nice a person at home. His family will miss him terribly. So sad.

I never met Magic111 but I did have the great pleasure of spending some time with Jerrie in Venice a few years ago and my heart goes out to her and their entire family.

I received a phone call with this sad news almost 12 hours ago & still don't have words to express how missed Jim will be.

My sympathy to his family.

so sad to hear ... you will be remembered, Jim. R.I.P.

I am saddened to learn of Jim's passing. I did not know him well. I believe I met him on a NW 747 - SFO to Singapore (or HK) back in June or July 2003.

He will be missed.

So sorry to hear the news. :( Condolences to all of you who lost a friend.

Horrible news. So sorry for his family.

I was looking forward to seeing him again at the BRT in June.

RIP, Jim.

so sorry to hear this, i had the chance to speak with jim several times at various do's around the world...my condolences to his family, we've lost one of the good ones. RIP, Magic111.

I awoke to this sad news today and still can't believe he is gone. I had the pleasure of meeting Jim several times and always enjoyed his perspective on life and his quirky sense of humor.

My condolences to Jerrie, family and friends. He will be sorely missed.

Jim at OzFest as we stopped between Hahndorf and Adelaide at the Glenelg pier:
http://tom911.smugmug.com/Travel-Australia/2010-Adelaide/207-Glenelg-Pier/884274720_7GaSk-M.jpg

I'm so sad to hear of Jims last departure from this world. It's far to soon for him. Isn't he one of the guys who is friendly and helpful to everybody, always smiling and with a funny and interesting story to tell - and one of the guys for whom one really wishes a long live... So what were Gods plans here? Well, at least it was the kind of departure that I would want to wish for myself when the time comes.

Jim, we'll miss you terribly. I hope we'll meet again some time at a better place. Condolences to Jerrie and your family.

I think we first met at a DUS DO at Bernies place, another sad and far too soon departure from ft and this world. All those DOs we've been to together. And all the interaction we had together on ft and the mod activities.

R.I.P.



Here's a YouTube video of Jim welcoming a large group on FT'ers on a boat ride at a London DO several years ago:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jagN42Ex_4

I think this will give folks who hadn't had the privilege of meeting him an idea of what a great personality and sense of humor he possessed.

Thanks, Cholula for linking this video here - a lot of ft friends are seen here. Another nice ft memory involving Jim.

I'm thankful that FlyerTalk allowed me to meet and know a man as special as Jim. Rest in peace...

Shocked. :(

Thoughts and prayers.

Jim at OzFest as we stopped between Hahndorf and Adelaide at the Glenelg pier: ...

I remember that Glenelg stop; also seated next to magic111 in Hahndorf for lunch and good conversation ... much more fun than the quick hello in Cairns at another Ozfest.

Condolences to his family. Great loss to FT indeed.

While I haven't had the pleasure of meeting Magic111, and never really looked at his posts, he sounds like he was a great man, and a fantastic Moderator.


My heart goes out to his family, and all of you who have lost a friend.

I never had the pleasure of knowing Jim. It sounds like that was clearly my loss. While this is incredibly sad news, I think he would think it fitting that all of these people from all over the world not only knew him, but knew him well. It speaks to the community that he helped build and foster, both here and over on Milepoint.

In a weird way, I thank him for creating a place that allows us all to mourn today.

For those who haven't seen it yet, there is also a thread in remembrance of Jim over on 'his' forum:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/american-aadvantage/1316855-our-magic111-has-passed-away-21-feb-2011-a.html

In the history of FlyerTalk, in the history of our corps of volunteer Moderators, in the history of the unknowns behind a keyboard who become friends and in the history of those who have earned my utmost and most personal respect — Jim/Magic111 is one of those that did make a difference for all those who call FlyerTalk their base station for miles, points and general travel information. The number of times I recall great conversations with Jim of reason and valuable contributions toward the success that is FlyerTalk reaches well into the double digits. His particular passion for the right thing for all the visitors to the AAdvantage forum and beyond still guides me today and will forever.

This is a man whose time clearly was cut too short. This is a member whose contributions are so imbedded in the mantra of FlyerTalk for wanting to help others, that he will always be part of the history that will be written for FlyerTalk.

We are all here for his memory today, tomorrow and for every day after. I am truly quite saddened by this news, FlyerTalk has truly lost a dear, dear friend.

As a newcomer to FT, I only know of Jim thru postings.

Yes, a good man is mourned today.

Reminds us of how fragile life is and why we need to scratch off as many listings off our bucket list.

I guess a good way to remember him is to think of him as we board our next flight and thank him for what he did to make it more enjoyable and productive.

Feels like the referee has blown the final whistle when the second half has just only started.

RIP Jim.

A classic example of what we look for in a FT member has left us too soon. RIP Jim.

Oh, Jim, if you are logging into FT from Heaven I can only repeat everything here and add that your advice when we met on the cruise at OzFest Cairns was invaluable and I use it all the time. Sad to know that we last had some enjoyable chats and dinners at OzFest Adelaide and I will truly miss you here and from this earth.

I am extremely sad to read of your passing. RIP.

So sad to hear - thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. R.I.P.

He was a very nice man. I am beyond stunned.
My condolences to his family.

A valuable FT contributor....condolences to the family. RIP magic111.

Very sad news. My sympathy to his family and friends.

The funeral service will be on Saturday, February the 25th at 2:00p.m. at

Parent Sorensen Mortuary
850 Keokuk Street
Petaluma, CA
(707) 763-4131

(Jim Morago)

I first met Jim on one of my early MR's. I believe it was at JFK when I was flying UA. I did a short MR (about 8-9 yrs ago) and saw Jim @JFK. He saw my FT tag and we spoke. I met him at several more functions around the world and he & Jerrie couldn't have been nicer. (and very helpful!)

I am grounded due to cancer but I hope to be flying again later this year.

RIP Magic111 (Jim). Although he was living life to the fullest, his passing came much too early in his life.

The funeral service will be on Saturday, February the 25th at 2:00p.m. at

Parent Sorensen Mortuary
850 Keokuk Street
Petaluma, CA
(707) 763-4131

(Jim Morago)

In the history of FlyerTalk, in the history of our corps of volunteer Moderators, in the history of the unknowns behind a keyboard who become friends and in the history of those who have earned my utmost and most personal respect — Jim/Magic111 is one of those that did make a difference for all those who call FlyerTalk their base station for mileuis, points and general travel information. The number of times I recall great conversations with Jim of reason and valuable contributions toward the success that is FlyerTalk reaches well into the double digits. His particular passion for the right thing for all the visitors to the AAdvantage forum and beyond still guides me today and will forever.

This is a man whose time clearly was cut too short. This is a member whose contributions are so imbedded in the mantra of FlyerTalk for wanting to help others, that he will always be part of the history that will be written for FlyerTalk.

We are all here for his memory today, tomorrow and for every day after. I am truly quite saddened by this news, FlyerTalk has truly lost a dear, dear friend.

Amen.. as I noted previously elsewhere.. just shock .. and then dismay.. super guy.. way too
soon.. he'll be sorely missed.. condolences to Jerrie & the family..

Punki and I shared many experiences with Jim and Jerrie, from Dusseldorf to Hong Kong, Basel, NYC and more. The last one with Jim was the BRT last year. We will miss him dearly, and offer our heartfelt condolences to Jerrie.

He was way too young to leave this earth.

I met Jim at a couple conferences but didn't know him real well. He seemed like a kind and gentle soul. Way to early to leave this place. RIP my friend. Prayers going out to his family.

FortFun found Jim's trip report from the first Brooklyn Tour. It's a nice read, and really gives you an idea of the type of person Jim was. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/trip-reports/179733-taste-brooklyn.html

Dan

anyone else need a ride? We can probably take one more. PM me.

Very sad - deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. I can only hope to have touched so many lives as magic111, may you rest in peace.

This news is so sad. He was always warm and helpful. It was great to meet Jim at a number of the Ozfest's in recent years. Have run into him in San Francisco and dined in Chicago in recent times. I haven't met his family - must be a tough time for his loved ones.
Too young to be taken from us.
A very nice man.

My deepest condolences to his family!

My deepest condolences to Jerrie and the rest of the family. Like others I've seen Jim & Jerrie at many DOs, but the one that sticks out in my mind the most was Bali Do 2006. Jim was such a generous contributor here at FT and his presence (both on board and at DOs) will be missed by many.

The obituary with online remembrances that may be added for the family:

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/pressdemocrat/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=156071846

R.I.P.

The funeral service will be on Saturday, February the 25th at 2:00p.m. at

Parent Sorensen Mortuary
850 Keokuk Street
Petaluma, CA
(707) 763-4131

(Jim Morago)

Wow... very sad news. Jim really was an amazing guy - passionate about so much and it showed, especially here on FlyerTalk.

My condolences go out to Jerrie and I know he's flying first class on that 777 in the sky.

Terrible to lose such a great contributor to our group. Condolences to his family.

I did not know him but may he RIP & condolences to his family

I hope that FT made his life better and his travels helped him have 64 wonderful years

How nice that Flyertalk was mentioned in his obituary :)

Jim and Jerrie were among the FTers I met at one of my first Dos. I remember speaking to Jerrie more than Jim, but they were a lovely couple and my prayers are with her and their family at this very sad time.

RIP, Jim, and condolences, Jerrie. I have very fond memories of attending my first (and probably last) bullfight with Jim in Valencia in 2003, during the Las Fallas festival.

http://www.dgolds.com/photos/spain2003/images/toro/web/003ChrisAndJim.jpeg

Jim will be missed by many. A true gentleman and a good friend. My deepest condolences to Jerrie and the family.

My condolences.
Jim will be missed.
:(

Several FlyerTalkers attended Jim's remembrance service today. The family asked me to post their appreciation for this thread and the one in the AA forum. His children began reading the threads yesterday, and were moved by how much Jim meant to people here. Yes, they had heard about FlyerTalk, yes, they knew that Jim traveled a considerable amount, but it was thru reading these posts that they realized how much he meant to us. It really expanded their understanding of their father.

The weather cooperated for us to send Jim off to that big soccer game in the sky. Jerrie's daughter and son had created lovely photo posters of Jim in his travels, including places I'd never even heard of. There was his and Jerrie's wedding picture, pictures of his children and grandchildren, and photos of him with several FT'ers who were present for the wake. We brought greetings form those FT'ers who couldn't make it, including Dhammer53, who was attending his mother's 90th Birthday. I know Jerrie and the family so appreciated everyone's support.

There were friends from all his big walks of life - fellow travelers, soccer friends, extended family, and neighborhood buddies. His daughter- in-law (who recounted the story of how he showed up on her doorstep unannounced to see his 3-week-old grandchild) read a lovely note from his niece who could not be there. As a teenager, she had an amazing trip to Europe with Jim carrying only one suitcase that had to fit in the cabin and that she had to carry herself.

Jim's son (Diego?) spoke very movingly of Jim's early challenges with his sons and how Diego now hoped he would be as good a man as Jim was.

JDiver, SanDiego1K and myself all spoke briefly, remembering a gentle, opinionated, life-living, smart man who we all loved and will miss.

The ultimate FT tribute - which I found so much a part of who Jim was - the flowers that JDiver arranged to send were through AA's shopping portal and earned a few miles.

I for one hope to be a better person for knowing Jim.

I for one hope to be a better person for knowing Jim.

Me too, a thought that crossed my mind a few times since I heard the news.

Many thanks squeakr & SanDiego1K for the update as it's appreciated.

:(

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/american-aadvantage/1316855-our-magic111-has-passed-away-21-feb-2012-a.html

The obituary with online remembrances that may be added for the family:

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/pressdemocrat/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=156071846

R.I.P.

Several FlyerTalkers attended Jim's remembrance service today. The family asked me to post their appreciation for this thread and the one in the AA forum. His children began reading the threads yesterday, and were moved by how much Jim meant to people here. Yes, they had heard about FlyerTalk, yes, they knew that Jim traveled a considerable amount, but it was thru reading these posts that they realized how much he meant to us. It really expanded their understanding of their father.

JDiver, SanDiego1K and myself all spoke briefly, remembering a gentle, opinionated, life-living, smart man who we all loved and will miss.

flowers that JDiver arranged to send
^

Very very sad.
May the angels take you flying with them Jim.
Condolences to all.

This is very sad news.

My condolences and prayers to Jerrie and the rest of Jim's family.

Only met Jim a couple of times and the last time was in 2010, but I remember him well. Just to show the man that he was.

RIP

May God bless him. I am a runner too. I ran the Baltimore Marathon a few year ago and a guy 25 dies at mile25. Ryan Shay died in Central Park in 2007 during the Olympic Trials in 2007. Last year a guy in his twenties died at mile 25 at the Chicago Marathon. May Gold Bless all these guys. Ryan had a heart condition. They dies doing something they loved to do but it is sad.

Jim was one of the real people. He was a part of all of us.

John Donne said it best, 500 years ago:

No man is an Island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the Continent, a part of the main; if a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friends or of thine own were; any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in Mankind; And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; It tolls for thee.

I'd like to share a couple of photos of Jim when he was in Alaska for the 2010 Cabbage Do. The second shows the Jim I knew. :)

This is the bunch of us standing in front of what should be Denali were it not for the clouds:

http://c650942.r42.cf0.rackcdn.com/magic111jim-1gs.JPG (http://c650942.r42.cf0.rackcdn.com/magic111jim-1gf.JPG)

And here's Jim at a roadside pullout inside Denali National Park. He's the only one of the group I could picture doing something like this. ;)

http://c650942.r42.cf0.rackcdn.com/magic111jim-8cs.JPG (http://c650942.r42.cf0.rackcdn.com/magic111jim-8cf.JPG)

(Thanks to FTer kltye for finding and sharing these pictures with me.)

Those are GREAT, jackal! Thanks so much for sharing.

Serious one moment, then having a bit of humor. I wonder how his photo turned out? :D

I feel privileged to have met Jim.

Condolences to his family and friends. Our thoughts are with you in this time of loss.

This is sad news. RIP. Condolences to the friends and family. Our thoughts are with you.

Very sad. Sondra and I send our condolences. We met Jim in 2005 in Shanghai. He was one of those people you enjoy being with and hoped to meet up with at another Do.

Very sad news. My condolences and thoughts go to his family.

I'd like to share a couple of photos of Jim when he was in Alaska for the 2010 Cabbage Do. The second shows the Jim I knew. :)

This is the bunch of us standing in front of what should be Denali were it not for the clouds:

http://c650942.r42.cf0.rackcdn.com/magic111jim-1gs.JPG (http://c650942.r42.cf0.rackcdn.com/magic111jim-1gf.JPG)

And here's Jim at a roadside pullout inside Denali National Park. He's the only one of the group I could picture doing something like this. ;)

http://c650942.r42.cf0.rackcdn.com/magic111jim-8cs.JPG (http://c650942.r42.cf0.rackcdn.com/magic111jim-8cf.JPG)

(Thanks to FTer kltye for finding and sharing these pictures with me.)
WOW...

FT is such a hugely small community. Until I saw the photos I did not remember who Jim is. :(

Cool Dude.

R.I.P. our friend.

He will most certainly be missed. What a great guy.

Ran into him in HNL a few years ago on a connection, and we had lunch a couple times locally.

Condolences to his family. RIP. :(

I posted this on the other Jim thread and I think it's just as relevant here. It's my favorite song about loss and I feel very fitting:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMTKb-pgxGI

We know u r looking down at all from 30,000 feet with a smile. All the best wherever you may travel! Hey folks, as they say, we are all born to one day die. Smile and enjoy out time hear!:)^

We are here but once , , , 21Voyageur

r.i.p.

So sorry to hear this news. :(

RIP Jim.

A dear friend pointed me to this thread. I am sooo saddened to hear that such a lovely man has gone :(

I met Jim only once, a few years back at one of the SIN Do's. We enjoyed talking about how hard it was to procure a suite at the Sheraton Towers Hotel in SIN.

My thoughts and condolences go to his family and friends.

So very sad...

Bundy Bear pointed me to this thread via a post on FB. I recall Jim on a couple of ozfests' and I'm sure it was Cairns in 2009 where we had a good chat about AA and the difficulties some of us (the non-USA living members) had getting decent offers, yet the benefits from eVIP's. I remember his first comment was that I should move to the USA and my problem would be fixed ;) :D

My condolences to his family and close friends here on FT.

I was fortunate to meet Jim and Jerrie at the Tour de France TLS Do in 2007. He came across as a very warm and friendly person, and I feel honoured to have met him. My heart and thoughts are with Jerrie and the rest of the family, and his FT family. RIP

Jim rode with Mrs. BlondeBomber and I from Madrid to Valencia and back for a FT Las Fallas celebration. Great guy and always a lot of fun! He will be missed. Our thoughts are with his family right now.

I can only hold my heart out to any of Jim's friends and family who might be reading this.
My sincere condolences and I hope that these testaments will provide some comfort. To be both a 'marchoso' (fun lover who follows the action) and a caballero (gentleman) is a rare and wonderful thing. We are all that much poorer for his passing away.

Oh my. So very sad. My deepest condolences to his family.

There is also an online Guest Book where you can express your condolences to Jim's family here (http://www.legacy.com/guestbook/pressdemocrat/guestbook.aspx?n=james-morago&pid=156071846); it will be up "in perpetuity" thanks to FlyerTalk, so there is no deadline.

cblaisd has provided the link (http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/pressdemocrat/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=156071846)to Jim's obituary; I will merely replicate it here.

I'm shocked! I had the privilege to meet Jim recently at a lunch-do and MRing via SFO. Jim was a true gentleman and he left a deep impression when he shared travel and life stories with me. My condolences to his family. He will be missed by all.

I only met you once, but you have that unique aura of warmth and genuinity. My deepest condolences to your family and friends. :(

Sorry to hear one of our own was lost

Last night, dhammer53 and I sat down for a round of adult beverages and raised our glasses to honor the memories of two spectacular gentlemen, magic111 and newself.

I came across my SZG DO 2008 pics tonight and thought I'd share.


Sound of Music Tour, Mondsee
http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc85/ftftpics/2890853302_c4aa0f428f.jpg



Salzburg Airport firehouse
http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc85/ftftpics/2895593811_9432bfbfe2a.jpg



Schlosskonzerte Mirabell
http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc85/ftftpics/2897510929_7de4ff6d7a.jpg

Good pics, boxo. Thank you.

And once more from the two of us, RIP, Jim.

Good pics, boxo. Thank you.

And once more from the two of us, RIP, Jim.

Ditto. I was just thinking about Jim the other day. Always saddened when he crosses my mind. A truly great man.