San Rafael, CA

James Lee Placak, 94, whose remarkable youthfulness made him seem decades younger, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Jim graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, in 1952 and was soon drafted into the U.S. Army. While stationed in Verdon, France, Jim's career in sales began. He started an auto sales business on the side, selling Renaults to fellow G.I.s for $1,000 each! In 1956, 26-year-old Jim accepted a sales position with Connecticut General Life Insurance in their San Francisco office. His exemplary work ethic and “never say never” attitude led to a successful career in Employee Benefits, which began in 1960. Jim became a leader in the industry, securing significant clients, including the San Francisco 49ers Football team. Over the years, he earned numerous accolades, including titles as San Francisco branch office production leader (starting in 1965), Life Member of the Million Dollar Round Table, President’s Club member, and Charter Member of the CG Centurion Club. San Francisco also marked a pivotal chapter in Jim’s personal life. He met his beloved wife, Jacquie, at their residence hall, and they married on September 21, 1957, later moving to Terra Linda to start their family. In 1959, Jim and Jacquie welcomed their son, Robert. Just 22 months later, they were blessed with twin daughters, Nancy and Linda, whom Jim lovingly referred to as “his two tigers.” He often recalled how the surprise of having twins came just an hour before their birth, and his response—“No sweat, we’ve got this covered!”—reflected his ever-positive approach to life’s challenges.

Described by many as the quintessential gentleman, Jim was always impeccably dressed, with his signature handkerchief never far from his pocket. His attire reflected the distinctive JLP style he made his own. Jim took immense pride in his appearance, from his perfectly coiffed hair (a testament to his punctuality with his barber appointments) to his overall presence. His refined appearance was matched by his genuine warmth and interest in everyone he met, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him. Though his composed, buttoned-up appearance may have suggested a more formal demeanor, Jim never shied away from returning to a playful, childlike silliness that his family cherished. He often entertained them with favorite phrases like, “Let’s Roar with Zet Zee and Zoar to the variety store, to get some Albacore!” and “I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!”—sayings that will forever remind his loved ones of his lighthearted spirit.

Jim had a unique ability to captivate those around him with his eloquence and oratory skills. A master of the English language, public speaking came naturally to him. Jim’s talents were not limited to the workplace; he was deeply involved in his community, serving as President of the Rotary Club, President of the Marin Aquatic Swim Team, President of San Rafael Little League, and supporting numerous boards and committees. He also served on the College of Marin Foundation, Chamber of Commerce, Marin General Hospital, and William Buck Foundation, to name just a few.

Among his proudest achievements was his role in establishing the Bank of Marin in 1990, where he served as one of its three Founding Directors until 2006. His impact was far-reaching, and his leadership in these various organizations was a testament to his dedication and passion for community service. Jim lived by the Rotarian motto, embracing it in every aspect of his life with integrity and kindness. He upheld the Four-Way Test with grace and kept a plaque of its inscription in his den. A true philanthropist, Jim generously gave his time, talents, and resources to various charities and causes, always eager to help those in need. His calm, methodical approach to life’s challenges and unwavering optimism made him an inspiring presence to all who knew him. His signature greeting, “What’s the good word?” encapsulated his genuine interest in others.

One of the greatest gifts Jim gave his family was his musical talent. He was a skilled pianist, and some of his family's favorite pieces included "Valse Lente," "Music Box Dancer," Mozart’s "C Major," and "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" (his wife Jacquie’s favorite). These songs were a source of comfort, and it was the last piece he left on his piano stand. Jim would often play several songs from his daily piano practice, sharing his love for music with his family. Jim is survived by his two adoring daughters, Nancy and Linda, and his son, Bob, as well as his younger brother and sister, Bob and Cathy, who reside in his home state of Ohio. He will also be missed by countless friends, tennis buddies, bocce ball pals, or 'The Boys' with whom he regularly shared lunch. In accordance with his wishes, a private celebration of his life will be held with immediate family and his "third daughter," Tracy Johnston Anselmi, who grew up with the Placak family. Rrrrrs being sent your way, Dad, until we are together again