James Eugene Truax

He graduated from South Gate High School in Los Angeles and then attended trade school for two years before moving to Portland in 1937. In Portland, he met Dorothy Hart, his wife of 73 years. He and Dorothy loved to dance, and in fact, he met his future bride at a dance at the famous McElroy's Ballroom. He married Dorothy on August 1, 1941 in San Francisco prior to being deployed.

He joined the Army in Sept. 1940 and spent 14 months with the 162nd Medics. He had signed a special contract and was released from service and then was drafted in April 1942 and assigned to an aircraft unit; sent to school; became an operations NCO and Master Gunner Technical Sargent with the 516th AAA Gun Battalion and honorably discharged in October 1945.

Jim was a letter carrier with the US postal service retiring after 25 years at the age of 55 and subsequently investing in several real estate income properties. His activities included all sports and coaching. At South Gate High School he lettered in Basketball and Baseball. Later in Portland, he coached

Gray-Y and Little League teams, involved with Indian Guides and was Cub Master for the Cub Scouts. He was a sensational horse shoe player and a good golfer. Shooting in low 80's.

He loved getting everyone together at the family beach house in Gleneden Beach, especially over the 4th of July holiday, where each year we would celebrate his birthday. Family was the most important part of his life and for many years, all fifteen of us would travel over the Christmas Holidays to either Mexico or Maui. Memories that none of the family will ever forget. Jim and Dorothy bought a Motor Home (RV) and every winter said good-bye to their children and grandchildren and traveled for three or four months. They were able to visit most states and visit Mexico, several times in Baja California. In their RV, they traveled the circumference of the United States.

Jim's word to the wise was, “don't drive your motor home into New York City.” He was very active with his church serving as a usher for many years at St. Rita's Catholic Church in Parkrose. He and Dorothy also delivered regular meals to the parish members who needed that type of assistance. Jim was the leader of the Pack, and we will miss him!

Jim is survived by his three children, Jim (Pam), Anne Ellett (Mick) and Rob (Susan), Seven Grandchildren, who he called the Magnificent Seven, and nine great grandchildren.

His last years were spent living at Cherry Blossom Cottage assisted living facility. The family appreciates the fine care he received while there.

A Mass in his honor will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, September 5, 2015 at St Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, 2310 SE 148th Avenue, Portland, OR 97233. He will be laid to rest at Willamette National Cemetery. Remembrances can be made to the charity of your choice.