Edward Dan James

Edward Dan James, 89, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024, due to complications from COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease. He was born in Topeka, Kan., on Dec. 15, 1934, to Barbara and John James Sr.
His childhood was spent in Orofino and Clarkston. He and his friends were typical free-range children spending their days dreaming up their next adventure, whether it be playing army or scrounging up enough money redeeming bottles or doing odd jobs to go to the movies. There may have been a few misadventures as well, but we will keep those secrets.
He attended high school with his friends in the Class of 1952 at Charles Francis Adams High School in Clarkston. Dan joined the U.S. Navy in 1952, was stationed in Kodiak, Alaska, and served on the U.S.S. Foss, traveling to many ports of call in the Pacific and Far East until 1955.
He married Ruth McManus in 1956. They had two children, Cristi and Tom.
After returning home from the Navy, Dan worked for Potlatch until he was hired by the Camas Prairie Railroad in 1956. He served as auditor from 1982-1985 and retired in 1995 after 39 years.
The outdoors was Dan's favorite place to be. The family camped nearly every weekend, all summer long. After retirement, he and Ruth spent summers camping throughout northern Idaho, serving as camp hosts for the U.S. Forest Service for 10 years on the St. Joe and Lochsa rivers. Dan also enjoyed fishing, hunting and sports. He and Ruth had a beautifully landscaped yard, and he was proud that he was able to do his own yard work through his 86th year.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, his brother John Jr., and his son Tom. He is survived by his wife Ruth of Clarkston, his daughter and son-in-law Cristi and Keith Dawson of Lewiston, and grandsons Mike Dawson of Portland and Jimmy Dawson of Boise. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews including Gary and Julie James of Lewiston.
At his request there will be no service. Memorial donations may be made to Shriner's Hospital, St. Jude Hospital or a charity of your choice.