James (Jim) Zuvela was born to John and Margaret Zuvela on July 4, 1946 in Everett, Washington and passed away peacefully at his Everett home on April 30, 2021 surrounded by his family and into the arms of Jesus. Jim is survived by his wife of 51 years, Janet; his daughters Kathleen (Brad) Martin and Nancy (Kurt) Gilmore; his treasured grandchildren Kirsten, Randy, Kelli, and Micah; his siblings John Zuvela, Linda (Glen) Martin, Len (Karen) Zuvela, and Betty (John) Diedesch; sisters-in-law Judy Howard and Joyce Howard; brother-in-law Darrell Holland, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Coming from a long line of fisherman in his family, Jim began commercial fishing at age 14. He graduated from Everett High School in 1964. In 1965, Jim joined the Navy and served 2 tours aboard the USS America in the Mediterranean. Jim ran the Commercial Boat, the "Nonsuch," for Whitney Fidalgo Seafoods until purchasing his own boat in the mid 70's, proudly naming it the "Nancy Marie" after his two girls. After selling his boat, Jim continued to run fishing boats, worked for Hansen Boat Company, was a Yacht Master for several years and then worked for Icicle Seafoods where he maintained and ran the fishing tender Adventure until his retirement at age 70. During all the years he spent fishing in Alaska, he formed many strong friendships and was a respected Skipper in the fishing community.
After Jim retired, he enjoyed working in his yard, camping with his family, sleeping in his hammock, puttering in his garage, and meeting most mornings with "The Oatmeal Boys," a name given to him and his coffee buddies by one of their waitresses.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Margaret, John, and Marie; his in laws Ron and Blanche Howard, and many Aunts and Uncles.
Jim's family would like to thank all those who were dear to Jim's heart: his friends, fishing buddies, fishing crews, and his Adventure cook, "Sweetpea" Brigita.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held at a later date when we can safely gather together. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jim's memory to his church, Madison Community Church at 6900 Wetmore Ave, Everett WA 98203, or online to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (jdrf.org).
July 4, 1946 - April 30, 2021To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Pauline Sheehan
April 29, 2023
I cherish my relationship with the Zuvela family at Everett Covenant Church. I remember a time Jim and I had time to talk. He told me about his fishing business. Long live his memory. from Pauline Sheehan
Patti Fitzgerald
May 29, 2021
I am still trying to process the fact that Jim is gone. I have known him for as long as I can remember and our families had strong connections. He was a very special person who lived a life of kindness and caring; I can't ever remember him saying an unkind word. He was a giant in character qualities. He was a man of strength, but with a gentle spirit. He will be greatly missed.
Lynn Prescott
May 25, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Tom Swanson
May 14, 2021
I was sad to hear of Jim's passing. I worked with him at Icicle and could always rely on Jim to do a great job safely, treat everyone with respect, and to get there on time. He always gave 100% to whatever his endeavor might have been. He was a first rate captain.
Walt Dauderis
May 12, 2021
Tere wasn't a kinder skipper out there. I didn't get to work with him slot, but how he held himself,the lessons he taught.....well it was a lesson on how I wanted to be.
Julie (Borovina) Hanner
May 5, 2021
My late husband David Borovina always had great things to say about Jim. God bless Jim, his family, and his many friends.
Carolyn Kunard
May 5, 2021
Jim was a Godly man who loved his family. I am happy to have known him. He will be missed by many. Rest in peace, in the presence of Jesus, Jim.
Paul Martinis
May 5, 2021
Sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Jim was a great guy and a good friend.
Sherri Harmon
May 5, 2021
It's never easy, losing the patriarch of the family. The void is immense!! Fortunately you have the great memories that you can share. Remembering occasions, when you were all together, and smile, cry, reflect. I have known and loved you all my entire life. I wish you peace, knowing that eventually you will all be together again. My love to you all.
Pauline Sheehan
May 5, 2021
The Zuvela family has been precious to me for many years. Long live Jim's memory.
May 5, 2021
This is from the oatmeal boys
Rest In Peace our friend you will be truly missed one of the steadiest guys we ever met
Fred and Nancy Howard
May 5, 2021
We were so saddened to hear that Jim had fallen so sick and passed away. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you. Your in our prayers and thoughts. Don't hesitate to call.
Michelle, Mike and Adam Sirkis
May 5, 2021
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. What a wonderful life he led. I'm so glad he got to be with family
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