James Kenneth Poole

James grew up valuing education and perseverance. He graduated from Stadium High School and attended the University of Washington before entering the United States Navy in 1955. He was commissioned as an Ensign in June 1959 upon graduation from the United States Naval Academy. During his naval career, he served aboard the USS H.W. TUCKER (DD-875), USS BLACK (DD-666), USS LITTLE ROCK (CLG-4), and as Executive Officer of the USS KILLEUEA. He pursued further education at the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, earning a Master of Science degree in Chemistry. He later earned a Juris Doctorate from the School of Law at the University of San Diego in 1981.

For his military service, James was awarded the Air Medal, the Combat Action Ribbon for service in Vietnam, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary, National Defense, and Vietnam Service Medals. He also suffered exposure to Agent Orange during his service, which he bore with strength and resilience and which, in his later years, contributed to heart issues that led to his passing.

Following his military career, James became a patent and trademark attorney and worked for numerous oil companies’ research divisions, including Texaco, Conoco, and Phillips Petroleum. He continued representing clients passionately and diligently until the very end.

James had a love for life’s simple pleasures. He faithfully walked his dog, Cooper, and cared deeply for his cat, Marcie, ensuring both were happy and loved. An avid collector, he treasured stamps, coins, and artifacts from his travels. Every summer, as long as they were able, he and Miriam would drive Matthew, who has cerebral palsy, to special needs camps. He also supported many organizations related to his military service and community and was active with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in honor of his grandson, Andrew Weatherford, attending many Great Strides events throughout the years, often bringing Matthew along. Those who knew him will remember his kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength.

James was a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his children, Heather Poole (Larry Weatherford) and James Kenneth Poole, Jr.; his cherished grandchildren, Andrew Jameson Weatherford and Christina Marie Weatherford; and Matthew Poole, son of Miriam and Jim. He is also survived by his stepson, Fritz Groepler (Marietta); stepdaughter, Carol Jones (Jimmy); and stepson, Peter Groepler (Christiane), along with eight step-grandchildren and five great step-grandchildren. He is remembered fondly by his brother, Timothy (Carole) Poole and their sons Robert and Kevin, and by the family of his late brother Daniel Poole, survived by Daniel’s wife Kathy; their children David (Adrienne) and Courtney (Matthew); and grandchildren Millicent and Jameson. Among those who survive him is his former wife, Ruth Pinkerton Jameson. He was predeceased by his wife, Miriam Wilde Poole.

James will be interred with his late wife, Miriam, at Fort Logan National Cemetery’s columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Central/Western Oklahoma Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 10401 W Reno Ave, Suite 100, Oklahoma City, OK 73127.

James leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love that will be cherished by all who knew him.