Jim Westbrook or “Uncle Gus,” Rotary Club of Santa Monica President from 2007 to 2008, passed away on September 1, 2021, three weeks before his 87th birthday.
Jim dedicated his free time to serving others, bringing fun and laughter to Rotary activities, in all of his interactions and responsibilities as member and President. A resident of Santa Monica for 50 years, Jim was a CPA who provided accounting services for Rotary members and many other businesses in the community. This work included donating his time to Rotary and to the Claire Foundation. When he retired from accounting he became a personal coach, doing what he loved to do, interacting with and helping others.
His proudest achievement was being sober since 1973 and his work in Alcoholics Anonymous. He often attended three meetings per week until he could no longer attend. He dedicated his life to helping many others along the way to achieve and maintain their sobriety.
Jim really loved nature, often going on hikes with friends and family in the Santa Monica Mountains and in the Sierras. His family and friends will remember him as involved, caring, selfless, and just a bit silly. His laughter would light up any conversation! He was a wonderful father and grandfather.
He is survived by his son, James Westbrook Jr. and daughter-in-law Melissa, and grandchildren Kaden and Shelby. An outdoor celebration of his life will be held at St. Augustine By-The-Sea Church on September 25, 2021 at 4 PM. If you plan to attend, please RSVP to the following email: jwestbrook123@gmail.com or to Facebook link https://fb.me/e/2OZGOIi1O. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please send a donation to Rotary International at www.rotary.org/en/donate or to Claire|Matrix at www.clarematrix.org/donate-now.