James "Jim" Wiechers

1944—2018

Jim Wiechers was born in Oakland, CA, on August 7, 1944 to Lawrence “Bud” Wiechers and Dorothy Beckwith and he died on October 15, at the Queen of the Valley Hospital following a brief illness. After a short time in San Francisco, the family moved to Menlo Park and finally Atherton. Jim attended St. Joseph Grammar School in Menlo Park, Bellarmine College Preparatory in San Jose and Santa Clara University, graduating in 1966, with a degree in marketing.

Success in amateur golf led to his qualifying for the PGA tour that same year. Jim married Susan Pollard, whom he met at Santa Clara in 1968, and they welcomed their daughter, Erica, in 1969. Playing the tour for twelve years was the epitome of a nomadic life, but Jim needed an abode and place to practice during the off season, so Silverado Country Club become home for the next 22 years. More recently, Jim lived in Napa giving golf lessons and finally coaching the Women’s and Men’s golf team at Napa Valley College. Jim’s golf career as an amateur and professional was recently and very generously covered by the Register’s Sports Editor, Marty James, and the family is very grateful for his kind words and those whom Marty interviewed.

Jim leaves behind his wife, Susan, of Yountville, his daughter, Erica, son-in-law Jason Kuykendall and grandson Evan Kuykendall of Bainbridge Island, WA. Surviving family also include his sisters, Terri Plemons (Jim) of Redwood City, Judy Wiechers of Woodland and his brother, Michael Wiechers (Robin) of Granite Bay, plus many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Jim’s family and friends were very special to him so it’s unfortunate he will only be present in spirit at a Noon Mass at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 6404 Washington St., Yountville, on Friday, November 16. A memorial reception will follow at Yountville’s Community Hall, 6516 Washington St. Any memorial offerings may be at the donor’s choice. The family is most grateful for the care expressed by Dr. Paul Sweigert, Queen of the Valley Hospital and Lon Dreyer of Tulocay Cemetery. Jim’s ashes will be scattered by the family at a later date.

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