James Dylan McCaughan

Friends and family will gather on February 10th, in Santa Cruz to say farewell to a loving son, trusted friend, and dedicated "Knight in Shining Armor", James McCaughan who passed away unexpectedly here last week. He was 28 years old. James attended Waldorf School through 8th grade, graduated from Santa Cruz High School Class of 2008, and attended Cabrillo College. He was a talented surfer, belonging to the Santa Cruz High Surf Team, and continued to make friends in the water throughout his life. When his mother fell ill with cancer, James became her care giver, and was always concerned for the well being of those who were in distress. James began working at Shadowbrook Restaurant for three years after high school, and then worked in the construction trade. He was gifted in the field of Horticulture and enjoyed raising beautiful indoor and outdoor plants. James will always be remembered for his kind and caring disposition, and devotion to his mom and his friends. James spent much of his youth, living at the Mount Madonna Center where his uncle was a teacher. James was an avid traveler, and at the age of 13, accompanied his father figure Dennie Van Tassel on a trip to India; volunteering assistance at an orphanage there. James and Dennie continued to travel on trips to Canada, England and Australia, which provided many fond memories that they enjoyed sharing. He is survived by his daughter, Kailea Jamie McCaughan and her mother Megan. James also leaves his mother, Cate McCaughan, his beloved canine companion "Nikki", and a host of people who were fortunate to know him as a friend. The memorial ceremony will held at the Viking Hall (240 Plymouth Street in Santa Cruz) from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm. A Facebook GoFundMe account has been established in James' memory if you wish to contribute. You may also leave a thought or reflection with the family by visiting the Benito and Azzaro homepage.