James Michael Caesar

James Michael Caesar, 68, of Mill Creek, born in Tampa, Florida, to Bud and Davida Caesar, passed away peacefully in his sleep near Waimea, Kauai. He dedicated his life to his family and friends and relished every moment he spent with them. He was an extremely active and fit man who enjoyed marathoning, backpacking in the high Cascades, biking, woodworking, his 1967 Austin Healey and collecting and sampling fine wine. He loved jazz, classical music and opera, as well as rock and roll. Recently he had begun to study Italian and art history. Jim is survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Betsy; his three children and their spouses, Mona Caesar Johnson (Bryan), James Michael Caesar, Jr. (Cheryl) and Matthew Joseph Caesar (Zoe); and grandchildren, Lauren and Cameron Johnson, Charles and Nicholas Caesar and Ronan and Sophia Caesar. In addition to his parents, he is also survived by his cherished aunt, Virginia Groh; and his brothers, Dan and Doug Caesar; and sister, Anita Kaplan. He retired from the US Army as a Lt Colonel. He served two tours in Viet Nam and was recognized for his service with numerous decorations, including the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross and Bronze Star (Valor) medals and the Cross of Gallantry. He earned the Combat Infantryman's Badge and the Senior Army Aviation Badge. His name is inscribed on the memorial wall at The Smithsonian Museum for his contributions to military aviation. Following his army retirement, he had a second career as a senior manager with Boeing. Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia on June 23, 2014. The family will be hosting a celebration of his life September 14, 2014 at the Mill Creek Country Club. Visit Jim's memorial blog: alohacougar36.blogspot.com for more information, also please post memories, photos there. In recognition of his love of the wilderness, the Caesar family requests friends and family plant trees in his memory.