Obituaries

James Goldhammer, retiree, passes away

James Goldhammer, a retired correctional supervising cook, passed away April 7, 2024.

James Goldhammer obituary.
James Goldhammer

He began his career with the department in July 1989 as a correctional supervising cook at Chuckawalla Valley State Prison. Goldhammer retired from the prison in December 2018.

“We extend our most sincere condolences to James’ family, friends, and loved ones,” according to a statement issued by the institution.

Information regarding services are not yet available.


Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.

Follow CDCR on YouTubeFacebookX (formerly Twitter).

Related content

Michelle Battles, retired licensed vocational nurse

Michelle Battles, retired licensed vocational nurse from North Kern State Prison, passed away Aug. 17, 2026. She started her career…

William Francis, retired correctional counselor II

William Francis, a retired correctional counselor II (specialist) from San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away Aug. 12, 2026. He worked…

Ramona Arquilla, retired correctional sergeant

Ramona Arquilla, a retired correctional sergeant from Sierra Conservation Center in Jamestown, passed away June 17, 2026. She began her…

Staff from Wasco State Prison-Reception Center plant a tree in honor of Juan Carlos Garcia Espinoza, a licensed clinical social worker who passed away.

WSP‑RC unites to remember recently passed staff

Wasco State Prison Reception Center (WSP-RC) staff were joined by family members and close friends to remember the lives of…

Darla McCall, retired office services supervisor II

Darla McCall, a retired office services supervisor II from San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away Aug. 8, 2026. McCall started…

Henry Garcia, retired CTF correctional supervising cook

Henry Garcia, a retired correctional supervising cook from the Correctional Training Facility (CTF) at Soledad, passed away Aug. 1, 2026.…