Lasting Memories

James Bowman Gunn
Aug. 16, 1964-Aug. 4, 2015
Palo Alto, California

James Bowman Gunn died Aug. 4, 2015. He lived a life devoted to theater, comedy and film, but most importantly he devoted himself to the students he taught and directed, the comics he mentored, and the family and friends he loved.

Jim taught drama and film and directed productions for 10 years at Kehillah Jewish High School and for six years before that at Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School, where he touched the lives of countless students, parents and staff. Jim trained students in all aspects of theatrical production including directing, lighting, sound, set/stage building, acting, choreography and playwriting, instilling in generations a sense of shared responsibility and pride in the arts.

Jim was born Aug. 16, 1964, and grew up in Palo Alto. He found his passion on the stage where he started acting as a child at the Palo Alto Children's Theatre. Jim later directed productions for PACT, including its Outreach Program. Over the years, he directed and acted in hundreds of community productions in all kinds of venues.

In addition to his teaching, acting and directing, Jim made his place in the Bay Area comedy scene, where he was often referred to as "the legendary" Jimmy Gunn. He coached and mentored many young comics over the 20 years he performed comedy, despite his many "retirements." Comedians will remember him as a kind and respectful person who gave of his time willingly to help and support others. As a lover of film, Jim took great joy in being part of the screening committee for the San Francisco Film Festival throughout the last several decades.

Jim is survived by his wife, Myra Lessner of Palo Alto; his parents, Jack and Sue Gunn; his sisters, Mari Kauffmann and Connie Douglas; and his godchildren, Alex and Daniel Klein.

May Jim's memory be a blessing to all who knew him.