James C. Park

Born on March 28, 1933, in Valencia, Pennsylvania, to W.D. “Bill” and Maude Park, Jim grew up on his family’s farm, where he developed a strong work ethic and a lifelong love of family. After graduating from Mars High School, he attended Pennsylvania State University, became a proud member of Delta Chi Fraternity and earned a degree in Landscape Architecture in 1955.

After college, Jim married his childhood sweetheart, Margie Rodger, in 1956, beginning a loving partnership that spanned 50 years until Margie's passing in 2007.

In 1957, Jim was drafted into the United States Army, serving for two years at the Army Ballistic Missile Agency at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama, where scientists were pioneering the nation's early space rocket program. Following his military service, he enjoyed a distinguished career as a landscape architect and city planner in both the public and private sectors, including serving as Richmond’s Director of City Planning. Among his many accomplishments, Jim was especially proud of his role in helping create the James River Park System - a lasting gift to generations of Richmond residents.

In his prime, Jim was a sight to behold. While other master artists express their creativity on canvas or in marble, Jim’s chosen medium was the home project. Over the years, he enhanced the beauty of all our homes by designing, building, and installing everything from elaborate treehouses and expansive decks to beautiful landscapes, tranquil fishponds, patios, trellises, and outdoor lighting. The energy and stamina he poured into these labor-of-love projects are legendary. Often, the work continued long after sunset under the beam of his trusty headlamp, fueled by little more than a brief break for peanut butter and crackers and the application of the omnipresent Band-Aid. The homes he shaped stand as enduring reminders of his creativity, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

In addition to his beloved wife, Margie, Jim was preceded in death by his devoted son, Douglas, and his five siblings. He is survived by his daughters, Sandy Hartje, Jackie Steward (Rob), and Wendy Auer; his daughter-in-law, Gayle Park; five grandchildren, Eric, Sam (Laine), Michael (Samantha), Ellie, and Lara; and his great-grandson, Cade.

The family will hold a private service at a later date.