James Allen "Jim Gem" Durda

BURLESON -- James "Jim" "Gem" Allen Durda, 73, of Burleson, a retired electrical engineer, passed away Aug. 8, 2010 in Fort Worth after a lengthy battle with cancer. Funeral: 10am Thursday at Mountain Valley Chapel. Interment: Bethesda Cemetery in Burleson. Visitation: 6-8 pm Wednesday at Mountain Valley Funeral Home. Jim was born Sept. 17, 1936 in San Antonio to Frank J. Jr. and Madeline Julia Allen Durda. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Jim proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. He loved classic cars, saduko, yard work and landscaping, camping and most of all spending time with his grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by a daughter, Janice Ann Durda; his parents and 1 sister. In lieu of flowers the family requests that you please get a cancer screening and be safe, or make a donation to the American Cancer Society or your favorite charity. Survivors: Wife of 49 years, Julia Durda of Burleson; daughters, Debra Kay Durda-Withers of Huntsville, TX., Lisa Lee of Masfield; son, J. Allen Durda Jr. of Huntsville, Alabama; brothers, Frank J. Durda III of Fort Worth, David R. Durda of Canutillo, TX.; numerous nieces and nephews extended family and friends