Everyone knew if Jim Mees called you to work - you took the call! We have all heard that, many times, about a lot of people- but especially about Jim. But even if you didn't know Jim, you knew who he was. You knew you were going to learn- A LOT. His work- unparalled, legendary, and unsurpassed...
I had been fortunate enough to day play on a couple of Star Trek shows with him. This type of work was different- it wasn't rented, it was created- out of Jim's imagination. You see, EVERYTHING was a custom build in the mill, or from a fiberglass mold. It was a really interesting process to watch.
After Star Trek wrapped, Jim started doing shows that he hired a buyer for. Luckily, I was his choice. For many years I had witnessed the undeniable talent that I had seen before, but now creating environments that were present day as opposed to the future. The same magical process happened, day after day, set after set, year after year. And all with the grace and confidence that all of us who knew Jim had experienced. We did many projects together outside of the film industry, as well. Nothing ever rattled him, he was never nervous, he was always confident.
The best part about working with Jim was the friendship we developed. He trusted me, I trusted him- as true friends, and that wouldn't ever be taken for granted, by either one of us. Ever.
I spent the last weekend before Jim passed with him and his partner Michael, at their beautiful home in Pennsylvania. We shared many laughs, and many tears. As I hovered over him the whole time, trying to be helpful, he laughed and said: "You are gonna hover over me right to the end, aren't you?". We chuckled together.
My dear Jim, my mentor and friend, it is now your turn to hover over me...
With love and respect, always.
Written by: Kim Leonard
Services will be held at Salem Lutheran Church, 899 Salem Road; Selinsgrove, PA 17870, on Monday, April 8 at 11:00 AM.