James E. Truax

Truax, James E. 97 July 02, 1918 Aug. 28, 2015 James E. Truax passed away Aug. 28, 2015, from natural causes. He was 97 years old. He was born July 2, 1918, in Mobridge, S.D. 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 his wife of 73 years, Dorothy Hart. 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 Aug. 1, 1941, in San Francisco prior to being deployed. He joined the U.S. Army in September 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 non-commissioned officer and master gunner technical sargent with the 516th AAA Gun Battalion and honorably discharged in October 1945. He was a letter carrier with the U.S. 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 80s. He loved getting everyone together at the family beach house in Gleneden Beach, especially over the Fourth 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 15 of us would travel over the Christmas holidays to either Mexico or Maui. Memories that none of the family will ever forget. He and Dorothy bought a motorhome (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 U.S. 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 is survived by his children, Jim (Pam), Anne Ellett (Mick) and Rob (Susan); seven grandchildren, whom 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 was held Sept. 5, 2015, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. He will be buried in Willamette National Cemetery.  Jim was the leader of the pack, and we will miss him! Remembrances may be made to the charity of your choice.  Please visit gatewaylittlechapel.com to share memories and leave condolences for family.