James Jim Martin Golden

James Martin Golden was born August 7, 1928, in Miles City, MT, to John J. and Cora Golden. The family later moved to Longview, WA. Jim attended R.A. Long High School, where he excelled at sports. A natural athlete, Jim played basketball, football, and was on the track team. During his junior year in 1945 he was state champion in the 880 yard dash.

Jim attended Washington State College in Pullman. He was one of the first in his family to attend college, and earned his degree in business administration in 1950.

He then served as 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, and was stationed in Germany for two years. After returning home, Jim met Jacqueline Olivero. They were married in Longview in January, 1954.

Jim accepted a job in sales with Standard Oil Company. He and Jackie settled in southern Oregon where they raised three daughters. Jim loved to travel, and took the family on many driving vacations. Sports were always a part of his life – he played golf regularly and bowled on a league for many years. He also enjoyed competing in basketball and ping pong tournaments with kids in the neighborhood.

His career with Standard Oil (Chevron) took the family to Medford, Roseburg, Klamath Falls, Portland, OR, and finally to Bellevue in 1977. After Jim retired in 1995, he and Jackie enjoyed traveling. Among their adventures were trips to Norway, Israel, Jordan, the Panama Canal, the Grand Canyon, and the Canadian Maritime Provinces. The family joined Jim & Jackie on a trip to Alaska in 2004 to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.

Jim was cheerful by nature, optimistic and had a tireless work ethic. He was a man of faith and kindness, who always put his family first. His quiet and humble manner, quick wit and sweet smile will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife Jackie, daughters Julie Brimble (James), Joyce Golden (Erik Anderson), Jill Golden, and grandson Michael Brimble. Remembrances to Church of the Resurrection, 15220 Main Street, Bellevue, WA 98007.

How lucky I am to have something that makes saying good-bye so hard – Winnie the Pooh