James Darby Ames

James D. Ames, age 73, died Friday, June 2, 2017 after fighting many battles both on and off the field. He survived the Vietnam War, a liver transplant as well as cancer. Unfortunately, COPD was a disease in the end he was unable to concur. James died in the comfort of his own home surrounded by loved ones.

Mr. Ames is survived by his soul-mate and loving wife Mary Lou Gazette-Ames and daughter Cole Gima. He also leaves behind his only living brother Bill (Willy) Ames, wife Pam, niece Kim and nephew Lee David.

James is a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he bravely served on the front lines as a Combat Infantryman. James proudly served the USA for a total of 3 tours in the Vietnam War. He grew up in West Seattle Washington, one of three sons of Harry and Francis Ames.

James always had an appetite for adventure. His first adventure began as a young man in Alaska as a crab fisherman at the age of 16 years old where he saw many wonders and dangers while earning a lot of money. He loved both excitement and making money as he had a taste for the finer things in life as well as a desire to have fun and make others happy. James was always generous with whoever he encountered whether it be monetarily or just lending an ear and kind word. He also had a knack for seeing the humor in life and making others laugh. James later entered the trades where he worked most of his working years as a pipe-fitter in the union building several of our Seattle ferries.

James main love and joy in life was his wife Mary. James and Mary fell in love in 1978 and the rest is history. They were true soul-mates with a unique bond few ever experience. They enjoyed all facets of life together and were rarely ever apart. They not only loved each other but were truly best friends.

James was a man of great character and integrity and will be missed by all who knew him. He was a one of a kind gem.

Arrangements entrusted to Cremation Society Northwest, in partnership with Bleitz Funeral Home of Seattle, Washington.