James Carney

James Patrick "Jim" Carney, 62, passed away peacefully at his home in Rochester, Washington, on December 11, 2025, with his beloved wife of 30 years by his side. His passing followed a courageous battle with neuroendocrine cancer.

Born on March 6, 1963, in Shelton, Washington, Jim was a proud lifelong resident of the Pacific Northwest. From an early age, he developed a deep love for the outdoors that would remain a defining part of his life. Whether hiking through forests, casting a line into a river, or scouring the ground for shed antlers and agates, Jim found joy and peace in nature's beauty.

Jim dedicated 37 years of his life to Manke Lumber Company. He began his career pulling the green chain and worked his way up to operating the wood planer. He took great pride in his work and held deep respect for the Manke family, who treated him with kindness and appreciation throughout his long tenure. His commitment to his job was matched only by the friendships he built along the way.

To those who knew him, Jim was unforgettable. He never met a stranger—his friendly demeanor and easy laughter made everyone feel welcome. With a constant smile and a quick wit, he had a gift for making people laugh and feel at ease. He loved to visit with friends old and new, often bringing gifts from his outdoor adventures: smoked salmon he'd caught himself, homemade raspberry pies, or unique treasures like petrified wood and agates.

Above all else, Jim cherished his family. He shared countless hunting and fishing trips with his father Patrick—journeys that took them to Idaho, South Dakota, Alaska, and beyond. These adventures created memories that became treasured stories passed down through generations. He also delighted in traveling with his wife Carol and their children to places like Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Oregon Coast, and Canada—trips filled with laughter and love.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife Carol Carney; his mother Sandra Carney; daughters Jessica Carney (Drew Ross), Denay Newcomer (Jake Groves), and Amber Hubbard (Matthew Hubbard); granddaughters Presley Ross, Braylee Newcomer, Riley Groves, and Aayla Hubbard; sister Julie Wells; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins—and many friends who became like family over the years.

He was preceded in death by his father Patrick Carney and brother-in-law Tony Wells.

Jim's legacy is one of generosity, humor, resilience, and deep love for both people and nature. His presence lit up every room—or trailhead—he entered. Though he has left this world too soon, the memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him and inspiration to all who remember his joyful spirit. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 2, 2026, from 01:00 PM to 06:00 PM at Swede Hall 18543 Albany Street, Rochester WA 98579. All family, friends, and those who knew and cared about Jim are invited to attend. Please come share your stories and memories of Jim and how he touched your life. Donations in his memory are encouraged to support the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation (NETRF), or the Neuroendocrine Cancer Awareness Network (NCAN).