SALT LAKE CITY — James John McNamara, 74, died Aug. 6, from complications of esophageal cancer at the University of Utah Health Sciences Center where he spent most of his professional career. McNamara was born Jan. 8, 1933, to John and Frances McNamara. He graduated from Judge Memorial Catholic High School. He received his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctor of Social Work Degrees from the University of Utah. He served as director of the Department of Social Work at the University of Utah Health Sciences Center for 25 years, and was a professor in the Graduate School of Social Work. McNamara retired from the United States Marine Corps as a full colonel after 30 years of service. He was a loyal University of Utah Beta, athlete, and a life-long Ute fan. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Roselee Norwood; five children and their spouses, Maureen (Rick) James, Tom (Suzanne) McNamara, Cas (David) Eyre, Megan (Mike) Trapletti, and Jane (Robert) Thomas; 11 grandchildren, Brian, Caitlin, Anna, Dan, Hannah, Will, Erin, Christina, Elise, Jack, and Elizabeth; brothers, Jack (Patsy) and Bernie (Rose Marie); nephews, Stephen, J.J., and Matthew. A Memorial Mass was celebrated at St. Catherine of Siena Parish and Newman Center.
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