James Edward Whitworth was born May 20, 1935 in Thornburg, Iowa to Belle and Johns Whitworth.  His mother passed away when he was a month old.  For the following 5 years he was raised by his Aunt Edith and Uncle Erwin and assisted by Grandmother Lucy Whitworth.

Jim returned to his dad’s home and prepared for school.  The family lived on a farm and he, like everyone else, had chores they were responsible for.  Jim’s included house work, gathering eggs, feeding chickens and the duties increased with age.  He loved the farm.

In fourth grade, the family moved  to Deep River, Iowa where they continued farming.  Jim graduated from Deep River High School in 1954.  He joined the National Guard in his junior year of high school and in 1956 he joined the Navy serving four years.  After being released from active duty, he went to Kansas City and attended mechanic school.  After graduating, he worked at various auto shops and eventually came to Sedro Woolley.

He married Ruth Buchanan and instantly became Dad to four children:  Carolyn, Hank, Robert and Doug.  Jim and Ruth enjoyed the kids together and both worked hard to provide a good life for them as well as having fun along the way.  A memorable occasion was a family trip to Yellowstone National Park and through the Redwood forests.  As the family grew up and new babies arrived  they spent time with the grandbabies.   Celeste and Nicole were at Jim and Ruth’s house and were spoiled by them.  Hank who had moved away gave them three grandsons:  James, Jeremy and Chad.  Jim was always proud and loving toward them all:  grandchildren and great grandchildren alike.  After working locally, Jim and Ruth moved to Snoqualmie where Jim started his own business and retired after 18 years.  Jim and Ruth  planned their retirement years in Burlington.

Jim was a volunteer for the Sedro-Woolley Fire Department for 14 years.  He enjoyed bowling, traveling and golf.  There were many friendships established in his golf years.  He was a gentle and honest person who saw the good in everyone – always willing to help anyone in need.  He was thoughtful and kind – if you asked for his advice he would give it and if  you didn’t like it you were on your own.  He could be a bit stubborn at times…

Ruth passed away in 2003 and after many years of not seeing each other, he and Ellen became re-acquainted which started a new chapter in their lives.  They traveled a bit and Jim continued his golf.  He always looked for new challenging golf courses.  He acquired a new family with Ellen and he was respected and loved by all.  He became Grandpa to all of them and even Great Grandpa.

Throughout his illness he remained positive and strong.  Jim was never afraid of the hereafter.  He believed in God and all the bible promises.  We believe he is at last reunited with his mother.

Preceding him death are:  Ruth; mother, Belle; Father, John; step-son, Robert; and brothers Al and John.

He is survived by:  Ellen and her sons, Bud and wife Shannon; Greg and wife Rhonda; daughter Jackee and  husband John, and their families; step children Carolyn, Hank and his wife Nancy, Doug and friend Darlene and their families; and, sister, Lucy Lamb and Pat Korenke and their families.