James Meicho

1926 - 2018

James Meicho was born December 12, 1926, and died by natural causes on May 24, 2018. Jim was preceded in death by his father, Frank, mother Mildred; sister, Mary and his son, Ronald. Jim was born in Tacoma, WA, and lived in Ballard much of his life. As a young boy Jim enjoyed raising Homing Pidgeon's. This time in Jim's life was difficult, as the family like most of America, was struggling through the depression. When he was able, Jim bought his first car. He was proud to be the only driver in the family. He enjoyed driving his mom, dad and sister up to Mt. Rainer. Jim joined the Merchant Marines in 1944. He went to California for his training and made many trips to the Far East as an Oiler on Merchant ships. Jim was drafted into the Army and was deployed to Korea. After being wounded in the Korean War, Jim was discharged in 1952. On May 10, 1952, Jim married Emma Lou. Together they had two sons, Ron and Keith. The boys, active in the Boy Scouts, was an exciting activity for Jim. Boating was one of Jim's favorite activities. He enjoyed fishing and taking the family on summer vacations in the San Juan Islands. Bowling and getting together with their friends to play Bridge was another activity Jim and Emma enjoyed. Jim was a longtime employee and retired from Ratelco Inc. An accomplished wood carver, Jim made many Christmas tree ornaments and widgets to pass the time. In his later years, Jim enjoyed traveling the world with Emma. Avid square dancers, Jim and Emma belonged to the "Dudes and Dolls" Square Dance club. They enjoyed many trips pulling their trailer to distant locations to partake in square dance events. Jim is survived by his wife of 66 years, Emma Lou, and his son, Keith and daughter-in-law, Carrie, and two grandchildren, Sara and Zachery. He will be deeply missed. A Celebration of Jim's Life will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2018, at 12 noon at the Assembly Hall at Wesley Hills Lea Hill, 32049 – 109th Place SE, Auburn, WA; with Graveside following at 4 p.m. at Restlawn Memorial Park, 23800 – 104th Ave W, Edmonds, WA.