It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of James (Jim) Spencer Staples, beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. Jim passed away on June 21 while doing what he loved most - backpacking in Yosemite National Park with some of his closest friends - when he suffered a cardiac event. He was 44.

Jim was born in 1979 to David and Charlene Staples in Santa Rosa, CA. After graduating from Cardinal Newman High School, he went on to study at UCSC. While in college, he fell in love with Santa Cruz and chose to stay for almost the entirety of his adult life. It was there that he worked at Plantronics, and experienced a transformative time in both his career and personal life. It was there that he began his career in product management and met his wife, Beth. It was also during that time that they had their son, Spencer. 

Jim had a passion for being in nature from a young age, and was happiest when he was out hiking, backpacking, and camping. He also loved photography, playing and watching soccer, building Legos with Spencer, and gaming with his incredible network of friends, who truly were like family to him. Jim was predeceased by his father, David. He is survived by his wife, Beth, and son, Spencer, as well as his mother, Charlene, sisters Heather and Audrey, Heather's husband, Mike, and their children, Ryan and Annika, and Audrey's husband, Jon. Though his time with us was far too short, Jim leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and adventure. He will be forever missed and remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.

There will be a celebration of life at Chaminade Resort at 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95065 on Saturday, July 20th from 1 to 4 PM.  Condolence gifts may be shared via GoFundMe at https://gofund.me/b7d82d06

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