James Joseph Haas

James Joseph Haas ("Sage")

February 23,1951 – June 1,2025

James Joseph Haas, known to many as “Sage,” passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 1, 2025, at the age of 74.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, on February 23, 1951, James spent his early years in the Motor City before moving to Los Angeles, California, in the 1970s—where he would call home for the rest of his life.

James served his country honorably in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he pursued a career in construction and as a commercial diver, working in physically demanding and high-stakes environments beneath the surface. His deep expertise and steady professionalism eventually led him to a long and respected career as an inspector in the Department of Public Works for the City of Los Angeles, where he oversaw large-scale infrastructure projects worth millions of dollars.

A quintessential jack of all trades, James possessed the remarkable ability to construct or repair virtually anything. He meticulously crafted his family home with his own hands, skillfully maintained vehicles with unwavering determination, and was perpetually engaged in various projects. In every regard, he epitomized strength, capability, and profound intelligence—a true man's man who led by example and garnered the respect of all who surrounded him. He employed his expertise to assist in the creation and support of numerous temporary structures for his many friends at the Burning Man Art Festival, an event he cherished and attended annually from 2005 to 2019.

To those who knew him, James was thoughtful, grounded, and wise. He earned the nickname “Sage” for good reason— a calm and steady presence with quiet strength and deep insight. He lived with integrity, purpose, and a quiet pride in doing things the right way.

James is survived by his beloved wife, Lilith Marie Haas; his children, Devin and Amanda Haas; and his cherished grandsons, Miles and Logan. He is also survived by his sister, Bernadine Haas, his brother, Thomas Haas & his wife, Renee, and his nephews, Ryan and Evan, and his niece, Olivia.

He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched.