James Arthur White, 91, was born in St. Louis, MO and died on July 31, 2016. His mother was Lucy Louisa Wilcox Free and his adoptive father was Wilbur Hayes White. Jim served in the US Army 77th Infantry Division during WWII, earning two Purple Hearts. He obtained a business degree at the University of Missouri and married Betty Lou Ivie in 1948. In 1952, they moved from St. Louis with their two daughters to California (Modesto, San Rafael), ultimately moving with their four children to Portland, OR in 1963.

Jim was a successful businessman, having been a «gentleman farmer» of a 40 acre strawberry farm in Warren, OR, stockbroker, owner of Valley West Grocery, building contractor and ultimately selling commercial real estate in WA County. He was involved with Cub/Boy Scouts and was a member of the Sunset-Aloha Rotary Club. He loved his family, dogs, fishing, wood-working, Starbucks and the St. Louis Cardinals. Jim was a «glass half full» optimist who loved life.

Wife Betty died in 2006; daughter Lee Ann died in 2013. Surviving are children Laura, Keren and Bret. He leaves five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Jim’s only sibling, Lucy Lou Ross (Kirkwood, MO) died in 2015. He also leaves seven nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Oregon Humane Society. Special thanks to Cherry Blossom Cottage for their loving care of Jim; so very appreciated. A «Toast to Jim» is planned for Sunday, September 4; please contact Laura for details through this site. Great job, Pop Jim! «Ever Onward!»