Michael Wallace "Mike" James

Michael Wallace James

December 30, 1968 – November 23, 2025

Michael Wallace James, age 56, passed away on November 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Michael was born on December 30, 1968, in Seattle, Washington, to Donald R. James and Linda K. James. He grew up in Portland, Oregon, where he built lifelong friendships and strong family ties. Mike graduated from Benson Polytechnic High School and later from Oregon Institute of Technology in Klamath Falls.

Michael's life was shaped by his deep love for family. He was a proud father to Emma, Abby, Samuel, and Trey each of whom held a special place in his heart.

He made his home in Portland with his wife, Christine, and their son, Trey. Family was always at the center of his life, and he took great pride in being a husband, father, son, son-in-law, brother, uncle and friend.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Donald James; his brothers, Richard James and Douglas James; and his nephew, Jake Meyer.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Christine Brady; his sons, Trey Brady and Samuel James; his daughters, Emma James and Abby James; and his mother, Linda K. James. He is also survived by his siblings Donald James, Dawn Renee Cooper-James, Jared James, Ronald James, and Kristofer James, Sisters in law, Aimee James and Jolene James; Brother-in-Law Chuck Cooper and his nieces and nephews McKenzie Cooper, Lora James, Kaitlyn James, Colton Cooper, Nolan Pederson and Kade James.

Mike had the best smile-one that lit up a room the moment he walked in and instantly put people at ease. He had a gift for making others feel welcome, often with a perfectly timed joke or a familiar movie quote delivered with his quick wit. Laughter followed him easily, and he loved sharing it with those around him.

He loved fishing, where time slowed down and he was one with nature. He also enjoyed casino runs, savoring both the excitement and the camaraderie. No matter the setting, Mike found joy in simply being together with the people he loved.

Michael deeply cherished time spent with family and friends and held a strong and steady love for the Lord, which quietly guided how he lived and how he treated others. Incredibly smart and endlessly capable, Mike could fix just about anything and genuinely enjoyed doing so-always willing to lend a hand without being asked.

He took pride in looking his best and lived with thoughtfulness, kindness, and generosity. Mike never wanted to be a burden to anyone and consistently put the needs of others before his own. His humility, warmth, and care for those around him were evident in even the smallest gestures.

Mike's presence, humor, and generous heart will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 18th from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Tabor Space, located at 5441 SE Belmont Street, Portland, Oregon. Refreshments will be served, and time will be shared together in remembrance. The service will be officiated by Mike's sister, Dawn James-Cooper.

Psalm 19:14 – May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart, be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

A special thank you for loving Michael as your own, Dad Garry, Mom Paula, Family Newswanger, Family Nizic, Family Faren, Family Bieberdorf and Lucille Brady.