Harry James Hampton 1934-2008

Longtime Sierra painting contractor Harry James Hampton, 74, died Sept. 3, 2008, at his home in Gardnerville.

Born May 22, 1934, in San Francisco to Charles and Bess Shroyer Hampton, he attended Mission High School.

He married Shirley Lucia on Jan. 10, 1953.

A painting contractor with Mel Rifkin Painting and Decorating for 17 years, he lived in San Bruno, Calif., for 20 years before moving to South Lake Tahoe in 1976. He was employed at Harvey's Resort and Casino for 18 years and the Ridge Tahoe for 14 years as a painter. He was an avid golfer and loved playing in Hawaii and the Monterey Peninsula.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother John and in-laws Frank and Edith Lucia.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years; siblings Irene, Ester, Betty, Bobby and Michael; daughter and son-in-law Lori and Ron Bowler; sons Jim and Jeff and adopted son Jimmy Matson; grandchildren Chris, Symphoni, Lovie, Wes and Joe; great-grandchildren David and Kayla Hampton and Isabell Williams; brother-in-law Ken and Karen Lucia; aunt Irene and many nieces, nephews and good friends.

Arrangements are in the care of FitzHenry's Carson Valley Funeral Home in Gardnerville.