Jin Ho Kim

Born on March 5, 1937, in Chee-ahm-dong, Nonsan, South Korea, to Yang-Bae Kim and Nae-Rae Lee, Jin Ho lived a life marked by devotion, service, creativity, and warmth. He earned his bachelor's degree from Sung Kyun Kwan University’s College of Arts and Sciences in 1963. Prior to completing his studies, he served his country honorably in the Republic of Korea Army from 1960 to 1962.

In 1947, Jin Ho married the love of his life, Choon Ja Kim, in Busan, South Korea, after meeting through family at church. Their loving union would span over seven decades.

After immigrating to the United States, Jin Ho built a long and dedicated career as a technician at Tektronix, retiring in 1999. In 1978, he became a founding member of the First Korean Presbyterian Church of Portland, where he was ordained as an elder in 1997. His faith journey also led him to Mesuba Church in 2005 and Young-Nok Church in 2010.

Upon retirement, Jin Ho embraced his lifelong passions. In 2000, he blossomed as both an artist and a poet, expressing himself through Sumukha (traditional East Asian ink painting), Asian art, and ancient Chinese poetry. A keen horticulturist, he found joy in nurturing plants and beauty in every season.

Jin Ho was known as a stylish gentleman with a quick wit and captivating stories. Above all, he was a devoted husband and loving father and grandfather, always placing family at the center of his life.

He is survived by his wife, Choon Ja Kim; daughter, Sunhee Hager; grandchildren Nathan Hager and Megan Hager; son, James Kim; daughter-in-law, Ellen Kim; and grandchildren Ethan Kim and Kendra Kim.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Skyline Memorial Gardens in Portland, Oregon, to honor and celebrate Jin Ho Kim’s life and legacy.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.