CHESTER ‘CHET’ JAMES, 84, a longtime Sedro-Woolley resident, passed away at his home on Wednesday, February 8, 2006 surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on March 21, 1921 in Clay, New York, the son of Ralph & Margaret Kopp James. In 1925 the family moved to Sedro-Woolley and there Chet was raised and attended school, attending Sedro-Woolley High School with the class of 1939. For 5 years Chet worked in the woods as a tree faller until being inducted into the U.S. Army during WW II. Before going into the Army he was united in marriage to Juanita Jameson in Sedro-Woolley on January 16, 1943. After his discharge in 1945 he returned to Sedro-Woolley where he again worked in the woods as a tree faller for several more years. He later worked as a general contractor building homes in the Sedro-Woolley area.
He enjoyed rock hounding, bottle digging, hunting, fishing, camping and time spent with his family.
He was a member of the American Legion Post 43 in Sedro-Woolley where he was Post Commander, also serving at several post positions.
Chet is survived by his wife of 63 years, Juanita, at the family home in Sedro-Woolley. His children, Wanda Del Bosque of Sedro-Woolley, Bob James Janet of Mount Vernon, Dick James Debbie of Everett and Linda Featherston Cody of Burlington. 10 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and the family pet and companion, Candy Kisses.
He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph & Margaret, a son, Ron James, 2 brothers, Cal & Don James and 2 sisters, Dorothy Beals & Ruth Engholm.
Chet’s family express a sincere appreciation to Dr. Luther and his staff, Dr. Stewart and his staff, Skagit Hospice and a special thank you to Rosie Robles-Allen.
Memorials are suggested to the George Baldridge Post 43 American Legion or Legion Auxiliary in Sedro-Woolley.
Graveside services will he held on Monday, February 13, 2006 at 2:00 pm at Hawthorne Memorial Park Cemetery in Mount Vernon, with military honors member by members of the George Baldridge Post 43, American Legion of Sedro-Woolley.
Services are under the direction of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley.