James “Jim” Megonnell Rhen
James “Jim” Megonnell Rhen aged 71 went home to God on November 16, 2015.
Jim is survived by his daughters, Sonya Faugno and Tanya Phenicie; grandchildren, Archie and Alyda Faugno; sons-in-law, Cullen Faugno and Joshua Phenicie; brothers, Paul and Thomas Rhen of Pennsylvania; sisters, Mary Brunt of Delaware and Sarah Rhen of Pennsylvania. He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Yu Suk Rhen, nee Song.
Jim was born on November 23, 1943 in Dauphin, Pennsylvania to Paul and Katherine Rhen. He enlisted in the army after high school and was stationed in Seoul, South Korea, where he met his wife, Yu Suk. They married in 1966 and settled in Kent, Washington where Jim was employed by the Boeing Company as a machinist.
Over the next seven years, the couple welcomed two daughters into their home. He was eventually promoted to mechanical engineer in the advanced design wind tunnel testing department where he continued to work until his retirement in 2006.
His daughters remember Jim as a kind, gentle, generous father full of humor who encouraged them to pursue their goals. He was always patient and never hesitated to help anyone in need.
Jim had many hobbies and interests too numerous to name all, a few being airplanes, automobiles and trains, including model Lionel trains. He was an avid photographer, but stopped taking still pictures when he discovered the joy of videography. He could often be found behind a video camera at concerts, ceremonies and dancing performances.
He had a love of story telling that carried through photos, films and books as well as verbal. Jim was passionate about history and its preservation, especially Early American and American Military history.
He was an active and dedicated member of Steel Lake Presbyterian Church where he sang in the choir. His family and his love of God were the most important things in his life.
Memorial services are scheduled for:
Friday, December 4, 2015 for an informal remembrance at Barton Family Funeral chapel, 11630 Slater Ave NE #1a, Kirkland, WA 98034 from 4:00pm to 5:00pm
And
Sunday, December 6, 2015 at Steel Lake Presbyterian Church, 1829 S. 308th St., Federal Way, WA 98003 from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Rev. Dr. Will Mason will officiate the ceremony.
All are welcome to attend either service and celebrate Jim’s life.
In lieu of flowers, you may send a donation in Jim’s name to Steel Lake Presbyterian Church, 1829 S. 308th St., Federal Way, WA 98003 or the American Heart Association. Condolences can be sent to:
With the case sensitive password: JIMRHEN
5 Responses to “James “Jim” Megonnell Rhen”
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Jim was a good man with a big heart. He made the Wind Tunnel a better place. Rest in peace, brother.
Jim always had a quick smile and warm greeting. A pleasure to be around. Mister congeniality.
To a wonderful father who will be greatly missed.
I have many fond memories of Jim. I always looked forward to seeing him over the holidays. He was full of life and vigor. He brought joy to our family functions.
Jim & my husband were deer hunters and both looked forward to many years going hunting together. Jim was the kindness & a gentle man and we will miss him greatly. Rest in Peace our friend, you are now home.
Kathy Allen