James William Dusin

James "Jim" William Dusin, 91, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, in Anthem, Arizona. Born on November 9, 1934, in Bell, California, Jim lived a full and vibrant life marked by service, dedication to family, and a deep appreciation for nature.

He met his wife of 66 years, Shirley Ann Spomer, in a young adult church group at Fresno State College in 1959. They were married 6 months later. They had 3 children while living in Fresno (James Robert, Randall Raymond, and Pamela Diann). Jim's career later led them to move to Paradise, CA, to Boise, ID and then to Yakima, WA where they lived for over 50 years. In 2021, Jim and Shirley moved to Anthem, AZ to be closer to Randy and his wife Tracey. They have been living among the Merrill Gardens community there for just over five years.

Jim proudly served in the United States Coast Guard as a Gunner's Mate for four years. His time in the service left a lasting impression on him, and he often shared stories of his experiences with his family. He carried immense pride in having been part of this honorable branch of the military.

Following his service in the military, Jim pursued his passion for plants and landscapes by earning a bachelor's degree in Horticulture. This educational foundation led to a fulfilling career that combined science and beauty. He worked with Melville E Wilson Company, Valley Ag, Thompson-Hayward Chemical Company and PBI-Gordon Corporation, in Agricultural and Ornamental Chemical Sales and Management. Later, he was the Greenskeeper at Apple Tree Golf Course and then worked at the Yakima Elks Golf & Country Club where his knowledge and attention to detail helped shape pristine greens enjoyed by many.

Jim’s lawn, vegetable garden, and flowers were sources of great pride. Weekends often found him tending to his yard with care before relaxing with a glass of wine to admire the fruits of his labor. Woodworking was another of Jim’s passions. He was always ready to lend a hand or share one of the many tools from his well-stocked workshop.

He was also known for spinning captivating stories—his warmth and humor drawing people in as much as any tale he told.

Faith played an important role throughout Jim’s life. He and Shirley were longtime members of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Yakima, where they raised their children and formed enduring friendships within the congregation.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Jim is survived by Shirley, his beloved wife; sons James (Cindy) and Randy (Tracey); daughter Pam (Jonathan); seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and two more great-grandchildren expected soon. His legacy lives on through each of them.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother Rose Maude Powell, father William Henry Dusin, stepfather George Kelsey Powell as well as four siblings, Donald Lee Dusin, Robert Wallace Dusin, Janice Lydia Hudson, and Gwendolyn Rose Johnson.

He will be remembered not only for what he built with his hands but also for what he built with his heart: a life rooted in love, generosity, hard work, and family.

May Jim’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire acts of kindness for generations to come.