Friday, April 26, 2024
Richard Durland James of Leavenworth, Washington passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 21, 2018 at the age of 92.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years Joan L. James (2009), first born son Kirby Allen James (1956) and younger brother Kenneth James (1988).
He is survived for four children: David (Ruth) James of Woodinville, WA, Karlyn (Greg) Parry of Chewelah, WA, Mark (Erlinda) James of Tacoma, WA, and Greg James of Seattle, WA. He is also survived for four grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at the Leavenworth Community United Methodist Church on a date yet to be determined.
Dick was born in Spokane, Washington on October 19, 1926, the first born of two sons, to Burdett and Florence James.
After graduating with honors at North Central High School in December, 1944, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was honorably discharged in May 1946 and went on to graduate from the University of Washington’s School of Pharmacy.
He married Joan Lenfesty in March 1950 and moved to Leavenworth in 1951 to become a pharmacist at Larson’s Drug (now known as Village Pharmacy). In 1968, he became the owner of the drugstore with the retirement of founder Enoch Larson. Dick remained active in the business for twenty years, retiring in 1988 at age 62.
In addition to his work and activities with his four children, Dick was active in the community, serving as a volunteer fireman for many of his younger years and later as a member and active participant in the Leavenworth Community United Methodist Church, the Leavenworth Senior Center, various square and round dancing clubs, and as a Board member for the Alpine Betterment Corporation (ABC).
With his wife, Dick enjoyed hiking and nature walks, travel and time with his grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at the Leavenworth Community United Methodist Church at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 10, 2018.
In lieu of gifts or flowers, the family requests that donations are made to the Community Cupboard in Leavenworth (219 14th Street, 98826 or https://uvmend.org/community-cupboard)
