James Short, 55, of Hughson, passed away peacefully on Wednesday at his residence in Hughson. He was born in 1956 in Turlock to Phillip and Kay Short. He was raised in Hughson and graduated from Hughson High School in 1974. He attended Modesto Junior College. He became a welder and had a career in heavy construction. James attended Waterford Foursquare Church. He was a cowboy, and loved leading pack trips into the wilderness. He was also artistic and creative with his welding, making metal sculptures and decor.

James is survived by his wife, Louise Short of Hughson; daughter, Crystina Foley of Mariposa; mother, Kay Short of Hughson; brothers, Phillip and David Short, both of Hughson; sisters, Lisa Warner of Hickman and Virginia Castro of Manteca; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Phillip Short.

 A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 16 at the Hughson United Methodist Church on 6th and Fox roads. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Modesto Gospel Mission, 1400 Yosemite Blvd., Modesto, CA 95354.

Allen Mortuary is in charge of arrangements; please share your memories at www.allenmortuary.com.