Jim was born in Chicago, IL on July 29, 1945. That makes him a "Leo" which describes him perfectly as being fierce as a lion in his convictions.

On Sunday January 5 the world lost a very kind, gentle man, strong in character, passionate in his beliefs as a Vegan. Jimmy died in his sleep peacefully in his humble home in Dustin Acres, CA at the age of 79 after a courageous battle with heart disease.

He will be forever missed by his brother John Chovanec (Judith), his sister Gloria Varela, his sister Linda Janosz (Scott Beran), his sister-in-law Regina Chovanec (late brother Daniel), and youngest sister, Cynthia Chovanec, and many nephews, nieces, and cousins.

As a young man in the prime of his life, Jimmy served in the military during the Vietnam War era. He later married, moved from the Midwest to California, and then got divorced.

Jimmy loved California where he lived a simple, but full life in his very own unique way. He had personally and actively worked very hard for many years as an advocate for the ethical treatment of all animals.