James Julian "J.J." Hill

James Julian "J.J." Hill

May 8, 1942 ~ April 29, 2013

JJ (Jim) Hill, 70, passed away peacefully at home in the arms of his devoted wife Janie, after a courageous 18 month battle with cancer.

JJ was born in Toppenish, WA to James Glenn Hill and Bernice (Aldinger) Hill. He spent his early years in Zillah, WA. The family settled permanently in Seattle in 1955, where he met Gordie Barnett, who remained his best friend until his passing. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1960 and earned his A.A. Degree from Shoreline College in 1969.

On 9-12-1961, JJ's childhood dream came true when he joined the Seattle Police Department. He served proudly for almost 32 years, until his retirement in 1993 as a detective sergeant. Some of his many assignments over his career varied from the Tactical Squad, working the Seattle riots of the '60's, to the Vice Squad, and Traffic Division. One of his most notable assignments was sergeant of the DWI Squad that he alone created with a grant from the federal government. But, as he wrote, "My best assignment-motorcycles!" He was honored to teach the first female officers how to ride bikes. JJ could have attained a higher rank but as he explained, "Why would I want to? Where else can I ride my motorcycle at 100 and get paid for it?" JJ was regarded as a "cops' cop" and was greatly admired by those with whom he worked.

JJ met his future wife Janie (Byers) in 1977 at SPD. Their long friendship later blossomed into romance and they were married in 1990. The couple craved adventure and their many travels took them all over the world. They particularly enjoyed visiting beloved relatives in Norway. JJ was a voracious reader and also a man of exceptional wit, knowledge, and storytelling skills. He loved a great political debate!

In 1992 they moved to the beautiful waterfront community of Cape George in Pt. Townsend. JJ placed tremendous value on the lifelong friendships he made at SPD and in his retirement years. He created C.O.R.P.S.E., "Congress of Retired Police & Sheriffs, etc.", a monthly lunch for retired cops from the Olympic Peninsula and Seattle, appointing himself, "Secretary for Life". Retirement suited him well. He enjoyed more travel, family, friends, crabbing and clamming, AND riding his Harley! He enjoyed taking walks with his 3 pampered poodles and visiting neighbors. He often exclaimed, "I understand the concept of retirement!"

JJ deeply loved his large family, from the youngest to the oldest. His children brought him great joy! He loved discussing guns and politics with his son Jim! He was so proud of his daughter, Joyce for being such a great mother to his two beloved grandchildren, Grant and Isabella. He was in awe of their brilliant minds, thrilled to just learn that Grant was accepted to the U of W. He loved to hear Isabella talk about her horses and riding. After their recent visit he told Janie how proud he was that they were his legacy!

JJ gave generously of his time and talents to many organizations. He served as a volunteer for 18 years on the Board of the Jefferson County Civil Service Commission, which included the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department. He was a member of the Pt. Townsend Elks Lodge and the American Legion; the Retired Seattle Police Officers' Association and Olypen Retired Police and Sheriffs' Association.

True to his uniquely, optimistic personality, JJ's parting sentiments were: "NO regrets! We had a good ride!"

He will be missed

every minute of every day.

James is survived by his beloved wife Janie Byers Hill, Pt. Townsend; his loving children Jim and wife Valerie; Joyce and husband John and grandchildren, Grant and Isabella; loving siblings, sister Glenna Hill (Al) Rufca, FL; brothers in WA, Steve (Sheryl); Del (Jodi); Ken and Wes Hill. He also leaves behind his wife's family, with whom he also shared a special bond; Uncles Gunnar and Ivar Bersos; Janie's Sister Nancy (Bobby) Farrelly; brothers Danny (Penny) and David Byers. He cherished his numerous nieces, nephews, grandniece, and grandnephews, who loved their "Uncle Glasses!" and his loyal companions, Duffy, Annie and Teddy.

JJ is predeceased by his parents, his mother and father-in-law, Jess and Agnes Byers and his beloved nephew Jesse Farrelly.

His family wishes to thank the UW Regional Heart Center, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and Hospice of Jefferson County for the excellent care he received throughout his years of challenging medical conditions. Janie deeply thanks the entire family and friends for all of their love, care and support of JJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the children's charity, "Cuz of Jesse" 2001 Wilshire Blvd. #250, Santa Monica, CA 90403. www.cuzofjesse.org; or the hospitals named above.

A "Celebration of Life" will be held June 29 at 1:00 p.m. at the Cape George Colony Clubhouse. All are welcome. 61 Cape George Drive, Pt. Townsend, WA 98368.

A private graveside service will be held earlier. Sign the guestbook at www.legacy.com.