James W.B. “Jim” Riffenburgh passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, in Palm Desert, California, at the age of 91. He was born on March 4, 1934, in Torrance, California.

Jim grew up in Southern California and Colorado. He was a graduate of University High School in West Los Angeles and the University of Southern California. In 1954, he married Wilma Lou Rouse, whom he affectionately called “Willie.” Their marriage would last 63 years, until Willie passed away in 2017.

In his 20s and early 30s, Jim worked for P.I.E. trucking and Lockheed Aircraft, then was half-owner of a warranty servicing business. In the spring of 1968, Jim and Willie moved from Calabasas to Big Bear Lake, where they purchased Minder Lumber Company, later renaming it Riffenburgh Lumber Company. They brought with them their three sons at the time, Ernie, Karl and Duane. A fourth son, Walter (“Wally”), was subsequently born into the family in 1970.

Jim became a member of the Rotary Club of Big Bear Lake. He served a term as president of the club for the year of 1974-75, and was later honored with the Rotary designation of Paul Harris Fellow. Jim’s further civic engagements included the Chamber of Commerce, the Big Bear Municipal Water District, and the project to widen the highway through town. He was also well-known in the Valley for his automobile collection, consisting mostly of classic Lincolns, as well as other notable cars.

Upon retiring from the day-to-day operations of the lumber business in 1990, Jim and Willie left Big Bear Valley, resettling in the Paso Robles area. While there, Jim was again a member of the local Rotary Club, and for several years, participated in the Paso Robles Trail Ride, during which he once won the daring “Ride the Hide” event at the age of 60.

Soon after the passing of his beloved wife, Willie, in 2017, Jim moved back south again, settling in the Coachella Valley. Jim is survived by his four sons and their spouses, along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His can-do attitude and generosity will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Memorials will be held privately.