Terrible News: Jim Blumenthal Passed Away Last Night

[ElCabron]

A true gentleman and gentle man. It's been hard to function this past week. I haven't been able to stop thinking about how incredibly sad it is that his son will only know how kind and loving his father was from second hand stories. What a profound loss for so many.

-Ryan

[three25hits]

Its too soon to let this thread drop to the 2nd page.

I remember when Ben learned to ride his bike, and how proud that made Jim...

[Leon]

Originally Posted by three25hits

Its too soon to let this thread drop to the 2nd page.

I remember when Ben learned to ride his bike, and how proud that made Jim...

I agree Brian. Jim was such a kind and gentle person it is tragically sad. I have told several people, and I firmly believe it, Jim might have been the kindest and nicest person I have ever known. I have had tears in my eyes thinking of him more than a few times the past several days. I am really saddened about his passing. I am lucky to have known him I just wish I had known him even better. Jim was the kind of guy that made yourself a better person by just being around him. That statement can't be said about too many people.

[Griffins]

well said Leon.

[chaddurbin]

one of the reasons i stay away, this is just very depressing news from the hobby. i've known jim since his e93s were only psa5s/6s and being a caramel collector we were going back and forth and how excited he was to show me the t206 wagner he got from SCP that costs about a bmw sedan. i introduced him to a cool prewar board started by elliot and i'm glad he's touched so many people since...he's the true embodiment of what an enlightened buddhist is.

[barrysloate]

Maybe we should never let this thread die, like an eternal candle.

[Runscott]

Barry, it wouldn't be a bad thing. Jim was one of those people who left a lasting positive impression on almost anyone he interacted with.

[JK]

I havent been on the board much lately and happened to check in today. This is truly sad news. Jim's E93 collection was inspiring and led me to put together a set of my own several years ago. RIP Jim.

[Bpm0014]

I never knew Jim, never heard of him, and never saw his collection. HOWEVER, to be remembered with such positivity by so many people, with so many kind words, and to have touched the lives of so many people/friends, is a true testament to his character. The ultimate compliment, in death, is to be remembered much this same way. It would be nice if somehow someone down the line could show this to his wife and family.

[three25hits]

Originally Posted by Bpm0014

It would be nice if somehow someone down the line could show this to his wife and family.

His wife is aware of the multiple hobby tributes, and is sharing with his son and family.

[Rich Klein]

to my latest column

http://www.sportscollectorsdaily.com...issing-friend/

[Sterling Sports Auctions]

Very sad, it was always enjoyable to run across Jim at the Nationals.

Lee

[Jay Wolt]

Rich that was well done.
I think about Jim constantly and at 47 its just not fair.
Leaving a new bride and a young son behind.

[Publius]

I don't know too many people who have had such a profound influence on so many.

Not a single person had a bad thing to say about our friend Jimmy B. Not one.

I think that is a testament to how our Buddhist professor lived his life, and I should be so lucky that just a bit of that rubbed off on me. I miss my dear friend....

[uffda51]

Nicely done, Rich. Jim will be missed by a great many people.

[Jaybird]

I'm a guy that never forgets the limited time I have. I enjoy every minute with my son. Jim's passing has touched me in many ways but especially when I look at my son. An extra hug and sweet smile for him, an extra moment of thought and an extra moment of gratitude for everything in my life.

Thank you, Jim.

[bigfanNY]

. I did not Jim but received this from the College Jim taught at and thought I should share it.

Yangsi Rinpoche & the Maitripa Family Invite you to share


in Remembrance of

Dr. James Blumenthal

(August 12, 1967 - October 8, 2014)


A Celebration of Life


Jim greets His Holiness the Dalai Lama upon his arrival in Portland,May 2013.

A Celebration of Life in Remembrance of Jim

DATE: Sunday, October 26, 2014

TIME: 1:30pm

LOCATION: World Forestry Center,

4033 SW Canyon Rd. Portland 97221




In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made Maitripa College. You can make your donation and elect to "Leave a message" here.

All donations and messages will be conveyed to the family.




.

[Eric72]

So very sorry to hear of his passing. RIP, Jim.

[gnuche]

I loved Jim Blumenthal, he was a great guy. I only wish I had spent more time with him on the few occasions when we were together. Very sad, I will miss him but I will think of him often

Sad to hear he passed away. My condolences to his family.

[timn1]

Jim was always smiling when I saw him; I didn't know that much about his interest in Buddhism but it makes sense- he seemed to have an inner peace about him that made everyone happier when he was around. People tend to say nice things about those who pass away, but the tributes in this thread testify to what an extraordinary fellow Jim was - like all those who have posted above, I will miss him greatly.

Tim

[teetwoohsix]

This is terrible news, I didn't know Jim personally but I admired his evenness on the board. I also admired his taste in cards, and how humble he was owning cards like the Ty Cobb with the Ty Cobb back. And a Wagner. Amongst many other mind blowing cards. I will miss his presence on the board, and my condolences to all of his family, friends, and students.

Sincerely, Clayton

[Jaybird]

remembering Jim today. We miss you, bud.

[Al C.risafulli]

Indeed.

Thoughts from the East Coast.

-Al

[Leon]

Originally Posted by Al C.risafulli

Indeed.

Thoughts from the East Coast.

-Al

I have thought about him at least each day, usually more than once, since he passed away. I will miss him (as many will).