James "Jim, Zeb" Emrick

James 'Jim, Zeb' Emrick
Jan. 6, 1946 - Aug. 26, 2021
Jim was born to Allan and Lorraine Emrick in Portland, joining older brothers Allan, Jr., and John. He attended Madeleine Grade School, Jesuit High School and for a time, University of Portland. When college didn't suit him, he joined the Marines and served in Viet Nam.
Following his service, he worked as a caregiver for a time and also worked in several of Portland's fine old restaurants: Café Azul, Genoa, Wildwood and Crépe Faire. He was a familiar face in the Oregonian as a model for Meier & Frank and in Norm Thompson catalogs. In 1983, Jim found a job that would become his lifetime career; serving, teaching, enjoying and entertaining people at the Bijou Café. In 2005 Portland Monthly wrote, "Soft spoken, silver-haired and 6-foot-3, Jim Emrick is the Café's charismatic lead conductor. He knows every person who has walked through the door more than once, as well as who they know, who they want to steer clear of and who they might profit from knowing a little better." Upon his retirement after 30 years The Sentinel published an article on Jim that called him a Café icon. Jon Murray, kitchen manager of the Bijou at that time, said, "It's his strength of character and great calm that puts people at ease, not only his customers but colleagues as well."
In retirement he found his joy in walking many miles a day and chatting with neighbors, grocery clerks, homeless people ~ strangers or friends, all fair game for a meaningful and respectful conversation. He lived simply, without television, computer or car. He satisfied his research and literary needs at his local library. Then Covid-19 hit. He spoke with family and friends by phone, but the pandemic shut down his daily avenues of engagement. His solitary life still needed human connection.
Covid's lethal reach claimed Jim through isolation, not infection. Immediately following a mental health crisis in May, a powerful team coalesced to help our beloved Jim. Besides family it included Kathleen Hagberg, Ann Douglas, Jim's cousin, Katie Atherton and Jon Murray. Jim spent time in VA hospitals, Hawthorne Gardens Assisted Living and finally Good Samaritan Hospital in hospice where he passed away. May he finally rest in peace.
Jim leaves his brother, John Emrick (Jane); nephews, David Emrick (Carolyn), Paul Emrick, Sean Emrick (Danielle); and nieces, Molly Scragg (Charlie) and Erin Emrick; along with seven great-nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Al. The family expresses deep appreciation to Jon Murray, who has been a tireless and invaluable advocate for Jim over the past several months. A memorial will occur when it is safe to gather. Gifts in Jim's memory may be made to Blanchet House: www.blanchethouse.org
Please sign the online guest book at www.oregonlive.com/obits