Dates
A light went out with the passing of Jim Kavanagh, 73, on January 18, 2016. Jim was born on April 19, 1942 in Dallas, Texas, to James and Michelina (Butera) Kavanagh.
Jim was the rarest of men: strong, reliable, trustworthy, giving and caring, with a set of principles that could not be compromised, especially when it concerned the welfare of children.
He touched everyone in a special way because he possessed a unique quality of humility that made people always feel better about themselves, either with children he worked with over the years, co-workers, friends and anyone who had the opportunity to meet and spend a moment with him. His children considered him the “rock” of the family who was always there to guide them, raise them up and strengthen them.
He was a true Texan, who loved hunting, fly-fishing, skeet shooting, collecting guns, riding his motorcycle and fast cars, such as his 1972 Camaro. His great love was his farm near Rising Star, where he found serenity and peace. He was always grateful to James Burcham for helping him to make it such a heavenly place.
His professional life was all about helping people, first with emotionally disturbed children as counselor, eventually becoming the Executive Director of the prestigious Salesmanship Club Youth Programs in Dallas. In 1998, he moved to San Angelo to become the President of West Texas Boys Ranch, where he implemented new procedures, program changes and protocols to ensure a dynamic and safe environment for children. After the completion of his contract commitment he was named President Emeritus. At the end of his 42 year career of helping others, his credentials included Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Child Care Administrator (LCCA), and Advanced Clinical Practitioner. He served on many boards and committees, including the American Psychiatric Association in Washington D.C., and wrote the standards for Therapeutics Wilderness Programs.
Jim is survived by his wife Ingrid of 32 years and his two children, son Jim III, daughter Charlotte, their mother Jeanne Willineham and grandchildren Angelina and Jimmy; his sister Mickey Rudman and longtime friend Anne Kelsey; Cousin Ann Buckmann; his stepchildren David Fields, Massai Fields and his daughter Madison, Charlene and husband Paul Johnston, their children Alec and Andrew; his longtime friend Buzz Dicken and his family; a dear and loyal friend, Sandy Mauro and her mother Lou; valued friend David Yarbrough, special thanks to our neighbors Bob and Connie Hicks, and many kindred spirits right here in San Angelo.
His family would like to thank Hospice of San Angelo, especially his nurses Pamela, Jeannie, social worker DeAnna and Shawna for their tireless and loving care given to both Jim and his wife Ingrid. We thank all of our friends in San Angelo, Dallas and other places for their prayers and support. It helped more than can be imagined. A special “thank you” to Dr. Chris Barnett, who has been Jim’s family physician for many years.
In lieu of flowers, you are encouraged to share your love for Jim by contributing to Hospice of San Angelo, the West Texas Box Ranch, The Salesmanship in Dallas, The American Cancer Association or the charity of your choice.
Visitation to honor Jim will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, January 29, at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo. A Memorial Service will be held at the farm on Saturday, January 30, where his ashes will be taken.