James Jim Milton Bjorklund

Jim was drafted into the United States Army. He served honorably in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967. He received such medals as the National Defense Service, Vietnam Service, Commendation Medal, Sharpshooter (Rifle M16 and M14), Vietnam Campaign, Combat Infantryman Badge, and a Purple Heart.

On April 20, 1968, Jim exchanged wedding vows with Connie Sampson in Our Savior Lutheran Church of Lake City, WA. The couple had two children, Mark and Eric. They were also blessed with four grandchildren, Jordan, Lucas, Zach, and Emma. Jim made it a point to attend every sporting event his children and grandchildren were involved in, rain or shine. He always showed great loyalty toward his loved ones.

In 1976, Jim and Connie moved their family to Oregon where Jim worked in sales for Polson. He moved on to be the division sales manager for Mitchell, Lewis, and Staver, and finally United Pipe and Supply. He retired in 2008.

Jim was a member of the Oregon Ground Water Association. He also enjoyed camping, woodworking, and especially found great pleasure in being entertained by his grandchildren. In his earlier years, he spent many hours coaching soccer and baseball for his son's teams. He grew to be a great Timbers fan, Sea Hawks supporter, and NASCAR enthusiast. Jim was stoic, happy, and fun-loving. He was a hard worker and demonstrated integrity in every aspect of his life.

Jim passed away on May 14, 2011 in Portland, Oregon. A funeral service will be held at 12:00PM, Monday, May 23, 2011 in Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home. A graveside service with military honors will follow in Willamette National Cemetery. Visitation will be available from 11:00am to 5:00pm, Saturday, May 21, 2011 in Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Connie; father, Milton; children, Mark (Erin) and Eric; brother, Bryan (Laurie); nephews, Brent and Gary; and grandchildren, Jordan, Lucas, Zach, and Emma.

The family suggests donations in Jim's name to:

Doernbecher Children's Hospital Foundation

To donate, please visit: http://www.ohsu.edu/xd/about/dchf/help/index.cfm

where you will be asked to complete a gift form to be submitted with donation.