James LeRoy Squires, 78, of Salem, OR, died Thursday evening, August 30, at Providence St. Vincent Hospital. He was born February 26, 1940 in Clarinda, Iowa, the son of Charley and Avis (Snook) Squires. On August 21, 1964 he married Eva Mae Tedrow, who survives: they later divorced. On April 15, 1972, he was married to Kimberly Hutchins, who survives: they later divorced.
Jim is survived by his four children: Julie Randall of Anthem, AZ; David Squires of Beaverton, OR; Janelle Bass of Coeur d’Alene, ID; and Joseph Squires of Kansas City, MO. He is also survived by five sisters: Joann Drapeau of Mesa, AZ; Terrill Williams of Dallas, OR; Marilyn Abbott of Tulsa, OK; Kathy Ruth of Salem, OR; and Rosemary DeLeon of Dallas, OR. Jim has nine grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
Jim spent his early years in Clarinda, Iowa. While a small boy, his family moved to Coos Bay, Oregon and then, a few years later, the family settled down in Salem. As a teenager he joined the Marines, where he served for four years. After completing his education at Chemeketa Community College, he was employed with the US Post Office, after which he worked for the Oregon Department of Transportation. Later in life, his occupations included trucking and electronics.
Jim cherished a diverse collection of interests and hobbies. He enjoyed studying the Bible and learning about God. His musical journey led him to excel at playing the guitar, composing music, singing a variety of songs and gospel hymns. He treasured time with his family - engaging them in activities such as camping and fishing - and he always enjoyed a good pizza. Jim deeply valued the time he was able to spend flying remote controlled airplanes, building small model airplanes and sharing his hobbies with his grandchildren.
Graveside services with military honors will be held on Wednesday, September 12, 2018 at 12:00 pm at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon under the direction of Howell Edwards Doerksen with Rigdon-Ransom Funeral Directors.
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