James Booth Herman

On July 21, 2009, surrounded by people who loved him, James Booth Herman Jr., peacefully passed away in his sleep at his home in Richland.

Jim was born on December 24, 1911, in Everett as a special Christmas gift to Gladys and James B. Herman, Sr. A fun loving child, he never lost his zest for life. James had a sense of humor and a quick wit. With the telling of his great stories, there will be more laughter in heaven.

Jim met his lovely wife Helen at Everett High School; both graduated in 1930. They were married February 22, 1936, enjoying sixty- seven years of marriage before Helen died in 2003. Retired almost forty years, Jim worked as a salesman and later as a monument engraver. Jim moved to Richland in 2000 to be near his daughter and her family. Prior to that time, he had been an Everett resident for eighty- eight years.

Jim had that special ability to make everyone laugh. He also had an amazing mind and an excellent memory. The family would often ask him, if they could not recall something, and he would immediately provide the answer. In his youth he was a banjo player in a band and also played the piano while singing all the old time songs. Jim did not forget the words of his favorite tunes and encouraged his granddaughter and caregivers to sing along with him. He especially enjoyed listening to Dean Martin, Nat King Cole and the Andrew Sisters. Jim liked boating and swimming. His first introduction to the water was when some older boys threw him in the Snohomish River. At age sixty, he learned to love the game of golf; Jim later shared his interest with his grandson. He also loved landscaping; Jim proudly kept a manicured lawn and flower gardens. An avid pinochle player, Jim enjoyed going to the Richland Community Center to play cards. Another favorite pastime was photography; he loved narrating his slides. Many were about his travels throughout the states. Jim vacationed in Hawaii often; his favorite trip was to New Zealand and Australia.

Jim leaves a daughter Marcia and son-in-law Marvin Clement, of Richland; a sister, Margaret Osborne, of Tacoma; grandchildren, Crystal Clement and Curtis Clement, both of Richland; Cynthia Clement, Winnetka, CA and several nieces and nephews. He especially appreciated the many visits from his niece, Karen Cameron and husband Ron of Yakima; and friend, Suzy Poynor, Richland. The family wishes to thank his wonderful caregivers, who provided Jim with excellent and loving service: Charlotte Pastrana, Sharon Frankenfield, and Tina White. A special thank you to Dr. David Merkley, Jim's physician and friend. James was preceded in death by his wife Helen, his sister, Ruth Reinertsen, and sister, Jeanne Kellogg, who died the same day and time as her brother. Just as he took care of her when she was young, together, Jim guided her on their heavenly journey.

At his request there will be no funeral services. Contributions may be submitted in his memory to a charity of choice. His inurnment will be at Everett Evergreen Cemetery next to his "beloved angel."

Jim will be dearly missed by family and friends. He will always hold a special place in our hearts. We thank God for Jim's life and pray he is at peace in His care.