“I would like to believe I’ve made a difference for the creative thinkers and risk takers.” –Jim Vanderburg

James “Jim” W. Vanderburg  passed peacefully in his sleep on the morning of July 22, 2025, at Morningside of Fullerton.
Born in Hospers, Iowa, in 1934, Jim lived a full and remarkable 90 years, defined by love, family, friendship, and service.
Jim shared a 69-year marriage with his Fullerton Union High School sweetheart and beloved wife, Willa (Stedman) Vanderburg. Together, they built a life rooted in love and commitment, raising three sons: Mark of Corona, California; Wayne of Springfield, Missouri; and Jeff, who preceded him in passing in 2019.

Their family grew to include  daughters-in-law, six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, who carry forward his legacy of kindness, laughter, and resilience. Jim is also remembered with love by his sisters Sandra Hayes and Joyce Selix, his sister-in-law Shirley Laroff, and a large extended family of nieces and nephews.

In 1961, Jim and Willa purchased  Crown Printing in Brea, later moving it to Fullerton in 1968. For more than four decades, Crown thrived under their leadership, serving as a cornerstone for the local community. Beyond their business endeavors, Jim and Willa devoted themselves to volunteerism, generously sharing their time and talents.

Jim’s greatest passion was his more than 60 years of service to Rotary, from his involvement with the Rotary Clubs of Brea and Fullerton to his leadership on the global stage. He dedicated himself to advancing Rotary’s mission of  Service Above  Self.

He was elected to serve on the Board of Directors of Rotary International, which governs 1.4 million members in more than 200 countries worldwide. Jim and Willa are listed as Major Donors to Rotary International Foundation, helping to make a lasting impact on countless lives around the world.

Representatives from Rotary International will honor Jim’s extraordinary contributions and enduring legacy on October 15 at a special meeting of the Rotary Club of Fullerton (further details at fullertonrotaryclub.com).

Those who wish to make charitable donations to honor Jim’s life may consider the Fullerton Rotary Foundation.

Above all, Jim will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and a man of unwavering integrity. His gentle humor, steady wisdom, and generous heart enriched the lives of everyone who knew him.
A private family gathering will be held at Memory Garden Memorial Park in Brea, where Jim’s ashes will be interred at a later date.