By CLAYTON PARK

Jim Daly, owner of Daly's Home Decorating Centers, died on Sept. 6, after a long battle with cancer. He was 61.

On Sept. 10, family, co-workers, business associates and friends packed the sanctuary of University Christian Church to pay tribute to the longtime Fremont businessman who will be remembered most for his friendship, generosity, community leadership - and bad jokes.

Daly's achievements include co-founding the Fremont Chamber of Commerce, establishing an industry trade group called the Puget Sound Decorating Association, active participation in the University Sunrise Rotary Club, support for countless community causes, as well as running a successful business that included stores in both Fremont and Bellevue. Daly was also an avid car buff and amateur racer, whose office was adorned with numerous trophies he had won in races.

In 1986, he was honored as a recipient of the Mayor's Small Business Award.

A number of people whose lives he touched recently shared their favorite memories of Daly in testimonial letters. The following are excerpts from some of those letters:

"My ... involvement in neighborhood organizations is a direct response to your inclusion and kindness when I first moved to Wallingford in 1989," wrote Phil Briscoe, an Allstate Insurance agent in Wallingford "... You and (wife) Vicky invited me to your home for parties and a couple of impromptu dinners with your family. When you are a new guy in town that sort of generosity does not go unnoticed."

"Like most great businesses, it starts at the top," wrote Fremont businessman Mike Peck, commenting on how he was initially impressed with Daly's Home Decorating Center, but then became even more impressed by Daly, himself. "I discovered that you were a leader in the community .. the Father of the Fremont Chamber of Commerce, Rotary supporter of causes, graffiti, mural painting, Rocket booster buster, Fremont Yacht Club, the Boys and Girls Club, B.F. Day Clean-ups, Fun Run Briefcase Relay and much more."

"You have always been a friend to all the factions within the community - no small task," wrote Judie Clarridge, a Fremont community activist.

"Whether you are playing Superman at a 50th birthday party, driving model trains, playing Baroque music, remodeling your house or whatever, I am honored to call you my friend for all times," wrote longtime personal friend Jerry Adams.

Daly is survived by his wife Vicky, his daughter Robin and son Ramsay.