James "Jim" Grendahl

JAMES GRENDAHL
June 13, 1948 ˜ June 9, 2023

On June 9, Jim Grendahl left our world unexpectedly, just short of his 75th birthday. He was surrounded by love, family, and good friends.
Jim was raised in Vancouver, WA, on a small farm in the Walnut Grove area, with three younger brothers: Gary, Martin and Steve. They were known for their mischief throughout the neighborhood.
During his school years he was in charge of milking cows after wrestling practice, until graduating from Hudson Bay High School in 1966. He successfully went on from varsity wrestling in high school, to two years at Clark College. While at a Clark College dance, he met the love of his life Evie. They enjoyed 54 years of marriage and many adventures along the way.
Jim was first employed at a meat packing plant, followed by a part ownership of a small health club in Hazel Dell, before beginning a 30 year career in insurance with Allstate.
Throughout Jim’s life he maintained an interest in (drug free) weightlifting. He specialized in the bench press, and travelled to competitions that won him both State and American records in his weight class.
After retirement, Jim and Evie did some traveling in and out of the country. He also enjoyed motorcycles and rode his Harley Davidson on group rides for good causes. He also enjoyed skiing at Mt. Hood, from their cabin and riding dune buggies at Sand Lake.
Jim excelled in the many remodeling projects he completed around the home they have owned since 1971. Metal, rock, and concrete were his favorite mediums! His gardens are extraordinary, which includes ponds and a sport court.
Jim was honest, organized, hard-working and a funny man. He loved life and lived it to the fullest. His great sense of humor and teasing made him many friends. He will be missed by all who loved him, as well as those he irritated. He valued friends and they became “family” very quickly. He took care of his home and all whom he loved with expert care.
Jim is survived by his wife, Evie; his brother, Steve; numerous nieces and nephews and several best friends whom he valued highly.
A Celebration of Life for Jim will be held in July for family and close friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations could be made to a charity of your choice.
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