James lived life to the fullest. He was a resilient man who always worked hard. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and being in the mountains. He made beautiful artwork out of wood and always kept his knives sharp. He was the happiest when he was fishing at Taylor Reservoir with his daughter and his grandchildren. He often said,” I’ve lived a damn good life.” James is a beloved grandfather and father who will be greatly missed. 

He is survived by his daughter Felicia (John) Cardenas; his grandchildren Adonis, Accius, and Zaia; his sisters Kathy English, Sandra (Larry) Lingerfelt, Nancy Middleditch. He is preceded in death by his father James P. Cardenas, his mother Cordelia Cardenas, his brothers Ronald Cardenas, and Thomas (Cassandra) Valdez.