James Henry Van Osdol

James Henry VAN OSDOL Loving husband, awesome Dad, and Papa, James Henry Van Osdol passed away November 1 surrounded by his family. Born October 7, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois, Jim was raised in Peoria, Ill. by his mother Dorothy and grandmother Bertha. He was an only child. He started working at the age of 10 and had various jobs including paper boy, gas station attendant, and soda jerk at the local pharmacy. While 17, Jim met the love of his life, Marlene. They quickly became engaged and were married on March 11, 1951. They celebrated their 57th anniversary this year. Jim enlisted in the Army at the age of 19 and served in the Korean War from 1951 to 1953 rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class. After leaving the Army, Jim attended Bradley University in Peoria under the GI Bill. He graduated in 1956 in 3 years with a degree in Mechanical Engineering while working nights. After graduating, Jim and Marlene moved to Santa Monica, CA where he worked as an engineer at Douglas Missile Company. He later worked at Atomics International in Canoga Park, CA until 1977. Jim received his MBA from UCLA in 1977. Upon graduation he moved the family to Redmond, WA to lead IDD Aerospace. Jim retired from IDD in 1999 after a successful career as President and CEO. He also was president of the Redmond Rotary Club. Jim was a member of Sahalee Country Club in Sammamish and served as president. His favorite place was Black Butte Ranch in Oregon. He took the extended family on many memorable vacations there during the past 30 years. These trips created a lasting legacy for the family. Jim enjoyed backpacking in the California Sierra Nevadas, golf at Sahalee, and freshwater fishing. Jim was a man of exceptional character and integrity. His family was the most important aspect of his life. His love and sense of humor will be sorely missed. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years Marlene, son Jim (Vanessa), daughter Julie (Sterling), grandchildren Kali (Steven), Sterling Thomas, James Henry, and John. We are thrilled he was able to attend Kali and Steven's wedding this past June. Jim suffered a stroke in 2002. Another recent stroke in August left him unable to remain at home. Jim spent the last weeks of his life at Green Gables Adult Home Care Facility. Our family would like to express our deep appreciation to his caregivers, Estera and Luca for the loving, Christian care they provided him. Dad, we love you. You have been a great example to us all. Your love, wisdom, and unselfish character will be with us forever. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Salvation Army. A memorial service will be held November 15th at 11 am at the Duvall Church Family Life Center, 15510 1st Ave Duvall, WA, 98019