James N. O'Shea

James N. O'Shea - Jim Oâ??Shea, age 51, passed away suddenly in Palm Beach, Florida on July 29, 2010. He is survived by his wife Connie Oâ??Shea of St. Helena; brother, David Oâ??Shea and his wife Anne; niece Molly Oâ??Shea and nephew Keith Oâ??Shea, all of San Francisco. He is predeceased by his brothers, Steven Oâ??Shea and Robert Oâ??Shea, and his parents, Dr. William A. Oâ??Shea and Dottie Oâ??Shea, of Petaluma. A private "Celebration of Jim's Life""" was held. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Petaluma, 416 Payran St., Petaluma, CA 94952 in his memory. Family assisted by Parent-Sorensen Mortuary & Crematory, Petaluma, CA 763-4131. "" Jim was born and raised in Petaluma, California. He graduated from Petaluma Senior High School in 1977. He attended Humboldt State University where he received a B.A. degree in History in 1983. Jim loved the outdoors and loved to travel. He was an avid skin and scuba diver, skier, and photographer. He worked for the U.S. Department of the Interior for two years before embarking on a career in the Northern California wine/hospitality industry, where he has been an important figure since 1985. After making his mark at Sterling Vineyards, he moved to Mumm Napa Valley as Hospitality Manager, although he was known by many coworkers and winery guests as "Mr. Mumm.""" He helped to popularize a new sparkling wine brand, and combined his personal and business passions in establishing and developing the Ansel Adams permanent art exhibit at the winery, along with exciting exhibits of contemporary photography. He returned to Sterling as Hospitality Manager and was instrumental in bringing the winery to new heights after an extensive renovation. He went on to share his expertise with additional winery and hospitality facilities in Napa and Sonoma. Following some well-deserved time to reflect, he rode his motorcycle through the western U.S. and Canada, and returned to the dream job - both for him and for the winery - of Director of Hospitality at Mumm Napa. His presence in the newly invigorated programs were very welcomed and will be sorely missed. ""