Robert William James Jr


unnamedRobert William James Jr passed away on January 30, 2016 after a battle with cancer. He was 69 years old. Duff as his family called him loved the out doors, reading, sports, sports cars and sailing. He had a wonderful sense of humor and kept smiling right up until the end. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Parks Administration from the University of Washington and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology and Design from Eastern Washington University. He served with distinction in the Vietnam War from 1969 – 1970 and received the Bronze Star for valor. He is survived by his brothers Gary James and Donald James. He is finally free to set sail again.

3 Responses to “Robert William James Jr”

  • Jan (Westervelt) Smith says:

    We will miss you being on earth with us Duff. I will always have fond memories of you as my “older cousin of the James boys”. I remember like yesterday some of the times up in Seattle when I was young and you guys were always out looking for some fun. Rest peacefully Duffer, you deserve to. Our sympathies to Gary and Don. Love from Jan, Mike and Kara Ann Smith – Chapel Hill, NC

  • Carrie Rasmussen says:

    I’ve always enjoyed what a voracious reader Duff was. When we were at the lake you’d have to be mindful of your books or the next thing you would know, Duff would be reading them! I think one thing that I really loved about him was his laugh. It was genuine and something I distinctly remember from when I was little, before his accident and it’s one thing that didn’t change after. I’d often wonder if when I’d watch him staring out over the lake if he was picturing himself out on skis or fondly remembering a time when his body and mind allowed him stir up mischief with his brothers growing up. May we all be so lucky to have siblings and their supportive spouses should we find ourselves in a similar circumstance. I’m going to miss him and may his spirit be free to enjoy what ever he’s been dreaming of these last 35+ years.

  • Mitchel Barnes says:

    Duff has been very influential on my family and me. I speak of him in classes telling stories of my grandfather on down the family line to him and his brothers. I will never ride or let my children ride a motorcycle. He was a very brave amazing surviver that defied death multiple times. He will be remembered and talk about in my family as long as I’m around.

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