Richard D. James

Richard "Dick" James
April 2, 1944 - September 10, 2025

Richard (Dick) James, age 81, of Sequim, Washington, passed away unexpectedly on September 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife Kathleen and family.

Born in Worcester, Massachusetts, in April 1944, Dick lived a full and meaningful life. He and his wife Kathy moved to Sequim in 1983, where they built their life together for more than 40 years. Dick owned and operated Dick's Automotive, and later opened Peninsula Discount Auto Parts—known to many as A1 Auto Parts—in 1995. His hard work, honesty, and friendly personality made him a fixture in the Sequim community.

Before moving to Washington, Dick ran his own successful auto repair shop, and throughout his life, cars were one of his greatest passions. He loved collecting and restoring them and proudly displayed many trophies and awards over the years. Whether under the hood of a car or chatting with fellow enthusiasts, Dick's excitement and knowledge were unmatched.

But more than anything, Dick was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who found joy in simple moments—especially time spent with his grandchildren. He had an incredible memory, a quick wit, and an easy smile. Dick never met a stranger; he had a gift for conversation and a way of making everyone feel welcome. If you met him once, you didn't forget him.

Dick is survived by his wife of more than 49 years, Kathleen James; his brothers Robert (and Linda) James of Ohio and Ronald (and Kathy) James of California; his stepdaughters Carrie Monson of Sequim, Christine Link of Lake Havasu, Arizona, and Diane Palazzo of Sequim; grandchildren Matthew Getchel, Melinda Wickert, Alex Link, Eryn Martin, and Robert Justice; and ten great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Florence James, his sister Carol Santa Maria, and his grandson Daakara Monson.

A Celebration of Life will be held in April 2026 to honor and remember Dick—a man whose warmth, humor, and kindness touched so many lives. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.