James Canova

James Joseph Canova

December 18, 1979 – October 26, 2025

James Joseph Canova, 45, passed away with his parents by his side on October 26, 2025, at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle. Many other people who knew of James' hospitalization and bravery in his medical battles surrounded him in spirit as well.

Born on December 18, 1979, in Boulder, Colorado, James was one month old when his father joined the Air Force and the family began a series of moves through Texas, New Mexico, and Florida. James then spent most of his growing-up years in Georgia before his family moved to Seattle, Washington for his high school years. After trying out some courses in college, James explored his love of gaming and worked as a Gaming Events Planner, creating experiences that connected others through fun, strategy, and community. In recent years, James loved constructing, painting and gaming with Warhammer 40K models.

Those who knew James remember his love of animals and his generous heart. Even though, for medical reasons, he was unable to have a pet of his own, he noticed with delight each dog or cat he encountered. In fact, he could be charmed by almost any animal. James genuinely liked people too, always wanting to help others any way he could, big or small. He felt it was his responsibility as a member of his community and country to vote for social justice, and care about underserved communities. James had a great love for his family and shared a closeness with them that will long be remembered.

James is survived by his loving parents: Joy Harrison Canova, his mother, and Donald Blaine Canova, his father. He is also survived by his brother Christopher Canova (Jodi Gedansky), his sister Kate Canova Kross (Stephen Kross), and niece Madeline Carol Kross. James had a particularly loving relationship with his aunt Jan Harrison Peel; he is survived by her and another aunt, Mary Jensen, three uncles: Ramon Canova, Terry Canova, and Brent Canova, and eight cousins. James was preceded in death by an aunt, Dayle Harrison Jacob, an uncle, Mike Jensen, a cousin, Jade Jensen, and by his paternal and maternal grandparents who surely welcomed him home with open arms.

A celebration of James's life will be held on November 7, 2025, 3PM PST, at Return Home in Auburn, WA, where friends and family will gather to share stories, laughter and love in his honor.

Those wishing to honor James may do so by spending time doing what he loved: playing games, connecting with family and those less fortunate, loving animals, and cherishing the simple joy of just being together.