William Blakeslee
I met Jim Harkness 60 years ago in San Diego, California. He was my Balboa Little League coach when I was 12 years old. He taught me how to play baseball in my only year in the little league. It was the Cap League for beginners. We hit off the tee in the first half of the season, and faced live pitching in the second half. He taught me the game on the outside, too. He gave me a game ball after the little league season concluded.
After the season concluded, we maintained a wonderful friendship until his passing. I am forever indebted to him. I last spoke with Jim on the telephone some two or three years ago.
Jim was also a season ticket holder for the San Diego Padres, whom I have worked for since 1977. After the Padres won the 1984 NLCS over Chicago, we spoke on the phone for several minutes.
Jim, I know you are with Shirley, Dion (whom I played with on Jim's team), and God. I love you like you are a second father and a great friend.
Blessings,
William Blakeslee
1966 Little League player
♥️♥️⚾⚾
