James Frederick Bequette, 86, passed away quietly on Saturday, April 27, 2024, after a brief illness at his home in Quincy, California. He was surrounded by his wife, daughters, and sons-in-law. He is survived by Billie, his beloved wife of 65 years, his cherished daughters Ann and Aleece, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
James, or Jim, was a man of remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication. He worked tirelessly to put himself through college, working as a professional truck driver, and ultimately earning his bachelor’s degree in accounting. His career led him through various roles at an international accounting firm in the Bay Area before becoming a licensed Certified Public Accountant. He and his young family settled in Quincy in 1967, where he became the first CPA in the tri-county area and founded Bequette & Kimmel, CPA.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim was a cornerstone of the community. He served with distinction in the Quincy Fire Protection District, rising through the ranks to become a Battalion Chief and Assistant Chief. His commitment to service extended to his involvement in the local Rotary Club, where he served as treasurer for over 30 years and as club president from 1973 to 1974. He and his family hosted numerous Rotary exchange students from around the globe. Jim’s generosity knew no bounds, as evidenced by his dedicated 30-year involvement in community events such as the 4H/FAA annual livestock auctions and his 25-year-plus tenure on the American Valley Community Services Board.
As his practice grew, he and his good friend, James Stockton, hand-built their office building at 65 West Main Street. Later, Jim remodeled and then relocated to the current location of Bequette & Kimmel on Main Street just a few blocks from the family home, Casa de la Sierra, on Jackson Street. The house was nearly 70 years old when he and his family moved in. Jim spent more than a decade completely renovating the house one room at a time, turning it into a beautiful home the family enjoyed for 50 years.
A man of seemingly endless talents, Jim became a skilled craftsman who poured his heart into every project he undertook. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and the patience he exhibited in his work. He began assisting friends and family with their projects. Jim was such a fixture at the local hardware and lumber stores that they would ring up his orders knowing his account number by heart.
His passion for the outdoors was evident in his annual elk hunts, where he served as the camp cook. He also instilled a love of the outdoors in his children, helping them build some of their fondest memories at their elaborate campsite near Antelope Lake over many years in a row.
Jim was also an avid traveler, obtaining his private pilot’s license and embarking on countless adventures with his family. He seemed to enjoy driving above all else. He traveled countless miles to all corners of the US with his friends and family.
James Frederick Bequette, despite his many accomplishments and passions, remained humble and unassuming. To those who truly knew him, he will be remembered as a quietly selfless, earnest man whose legacy touched many lives in ways that most will never comprehend.
