Jim Shade, former owner of A-1 Rents, Salinas, Calif., died April 9 of cancer. Shade was 70.

Shade started A-1 Rents in 1966, and developed two locations in San Jose and one in Monterey, Calif., as well as the Salinas headquarters. In October 1997, Shade was one of the first companies to sell to United Rentals.

Shade is survived by his wife Carol Ann, sons Corey and Randall. He had three grandchildren. Shade was known for his enjoyment of operating heavy construction equipment, piloting his Mooney aircraft, kayaking in the ocean near Maui where he had a residence for some years, and his active involvement in his grandchildren’s sports leagues.

A Memorial Service will be held for Shade April 17 at 2:30 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Salinas. More information about the Shade service and memorials in his name can be obtained from the California Rental Association.