From the family:
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Wesley Crowell on July 14, 2020.
James (known as Jim) was born on September 21, 1954 in Long Beach, California to Annabelle Weih and Robert Olmstead Cromwell. He was the baby of the family with three older sisters who all adored their little borther.
Growing up, Jim loved camping, fishing, and going to the beach in search of sand dollars. He played little league baseball with his dad as his coach. Unfortunately, when he was only nine, Jim’s father passed away.
In high school, Jim lived with his sister, Suzie, and her husband, Barry Stilwell. When he was 16, Jim began working at Long Beach Seafood with Barry and continued to build on his knowledge of the industry. Around this time, Jim also made some close friendships that he would maintain his whole life. He was a loyal friend and an honest worker.
In his early twenties, Jim met Cynthia (Cindy) Blixt and immediately told one of his friends that he was going to marry her. Jim’s good looks and charming personality won over Cindy and within six months, they were engaged. Jim and Cindy married on August 5, 1978 in Alamitos, California.
Soon after, in 1979, Jim and Cindy moved to Nevada and purchased a house in Washoe Valley. The property was just land at the time so they worked diligently to build their beautiful home. Jim was a talented wood worker and built a deck, fence, shed, and playhouse, all by hand.
Around this time, Jim began working at Nevada Seafood as sales manager, and eventually became president of the company. His career with Nevada Seafood lasted 20 years. Jim was also involved with the High Sierra Chef’s Association, serving on their board of directors for many years.
In 1982, Jim and Cindy had a son, Justin, who was followed by their second son, Brandon, in 1984. Jim loved being a dad. As a family, they enjoyed riding quads, camping, and fishing. Jim was the president of the Washoe Little League Association in addition to being a baseball coach.
In 2006, Jim and his family opened their own wholesale seafood distribution company, Sierra Gold Seafood. They began by selling just a few items and successfully grew the company to what it is today. With his integrity, loyalty, and passion, Jim thrived as a business owner and was extremely proud of his sons for helping grow the family business.
Jim was a kind person who would give the shirt off of his back for anyone in need. He loved hot August nights and enjoyed classic cars. In his down time, Jim would watch old westerns. But most of all, Jim adored his family and his dog, Lucky. He was perfectly content just hanging out in the living room chatting with the people he loved. We will never forget how easy he was to talk to, his wisdom, his friendly charisma, and how he loved fiercely with his whole heart.