James Jim King, 59, of Marysville, Wash., went to be with his Lord on Nov. 24, 2006 while surrounded by the love of his family. This parting occurred during a heroic battle with cancer.
He was born in Portland, Ore. on April 17, 1947 to John and Jean King. Jim grew up in Arlington, Wash., graduating from Arlington High school in 1965. He married Dianna Brose in August of 1967, creating a union that was held in awe by many who witnessed their relationship.
Jim served eight years in the United States Air Force which included a tour in Vietnam, for which he was awarded the Commendation Medal and Air Medal with Second Oak Leaf Cluster. Jim worked for Boeing for 29 years, part of the time traveling extensively for the company. He was the Boeing Everett Plant Employee of the year in 1987. Jim retired in 2003 to be able to travel to see his sons family while they temporarily lived in Alaska. Upon their return to the Marysville area, he enjoyed taking care of the kids before and after school.
He loved to play golf with his son and grandson and spending time with his dog, Chip. Although he has traveled extensively, his favorite vacations were spent at home working on projects with his family or on short trips to the beach.
Jim was dedicated to his family, their well being always his top priority. Together with Dianna, he built their dream home in Snohomish, Wash., where he could always be seen working tirelessly on the private community road. Although he was the old guy of the neighborhood, it was frequently acknowledged that he could outwork the younger guys. This house was sacrificed in his recent battle with esophageal cancer, and they moved to a smaller home, closer to their children.
Jim is survived by his wife of 39 years, Dianna; daughter, Stephanie, and husband, Nick; son, Jeremy, and his wife, Renee; and grandchildren Alissa, Jonathan and Marina King.
Jim was preceded in death by his mother and father, Jean and John; and brother, John King Jr.
The King family wishes to express their gratitude to the University of Washington Medical Center and the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance for their compassionate care during the last few months.
Memorial service and celebration of life was held at 3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 3, at Marysville First Baptist Church at 4011 81st Place N.E., Marysville. Those who had known Jim were invited to share their memories of him. A reception followed.