Aaron James Jenkins, also known as James, passed away on February 24, 2018, in Blue Lake, California at the young age of 38.

Aaron was born in Eureka on January 26, 1980 to Norman Jenkins and Wendy Spiegel. He was a beautiful, sweet blond-haired boy who loved to fish and loved his family.

As he grew up, he and his sister spent many summers with their dad, stepmother Gigi, younger brothers, grandparents and cousins, going to amusement parks, playing pool with grandpa, and his favorite pastime, fishing. He enjoyed many trips out on the water with his dad. He was a great big brother to his younger siblings, his sister remembering him as her best friend and big protector. He loved to be outdoors, spending time with family, goofing off with friends. He was very smart and could debate with the best of them. He had a great smile and a bigger-than-life presence that made you feel at home when he was around. He gave the best hugs.

As the years went on, Aaron got his diploma from Arcata High, and attended College of the Redwoods shortly after. In 2008 he moved to Kelso, Washington to be closer to his grandparents. There he attended Lower Columbia College, and became certified in automotive repair. He worked in that field for some time. Later on, in The Dalles, Oregon he became certified in wind turbine engineering but did not pursue a career due to his fear of heights. He stayed in The Dalles for some time before moving back to his hometown of Blue Lake. He also found God again, and attended church with friends. That was a positive light in his life, and he embraced it.

Life with him in it was cut short far too soon, and he is missed by those that were lucky to know and love and be loved by him.

He is survived by his mother, Wendy Spiegel; sister, Michelle Jenkins Scott (Nathan); brothers, Cody & Casey (Emma) Jenkins; grandmother, Helen Chapman; several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his father, Norman R. Jenkins; grandfathers Norman F. Jenkins and Ernie J. Chapman; and great grandmother, Grace DeBeni.

Memorial arrangements will be privately held at a later date.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of James Jenkins’ family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.