James Russell Goddard 1/22/1948 - 8/28/2020

James (Jim) Goddard of Auburn, California left this earth on August 28, 2020 the same way he entered it, surrounded by love and his family. Jim was born on January 22, 1948 in Sacramento, California, to parents Harold and Marguerite Goddard.Jim was a graduate of Bella Vista High School (1966) American River Junior College, and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (1973). He proudly enlisted and served in the United States Army. Jim worked for the Southern Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad for 44 years, first as a Brakeman and then a Conductor. Jim was very athletic and played just about every sport. He played football at every school he attended, and was awarded a full scholarship to Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Jim's all-time favorite sport was Rugby, where he played, coached, and in later years, was a well-respected referee. Jim loved the outdoors and enjoyed hiking every opportunity he had. Jim is survived by his wife Jane of 47 years, his children Kimberly Spring Schweickert and Kevin James Goddard, daughter-in-law Alexis Goddard, grandchildren Elina, Taya Jane and Nathan, sister Elizabeth Goddard and brother Harold Goddard, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Jim will be missed by the many friends and acquaintances that he earned over the years. Due to the difficulty of Covid-19 restrictions and concerns, a Celebration of Jim's life will be held in the Spring. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Placer County Boys & Girls Club www.bgcplacercounty.org or your favorite charity in his name. Jim was one of the founding board members of the Placer County Boys & Girls Club in Auburn.