James Wallis "Jim" Button

1940 - 2025

James Wallis "Jim" Button James "Jim" Wallis Button, 85, a longtime resident of Cle Elum, Washington, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, July 3, 2025, following complications from diabetes.

Jim was born on April 23, 1940, in Durand, Michigan, and grew up in Traverse City, Michigan. He was the eldest child of Clarence and Ernestine (Bennett) Button and a loving big brother to his two sisters, Corinne and Linda. Jim graduated from Traverse City Central High School in 1958 and went on to attend Michigan State University, where he earned his bachelor's degree.

In 1967, Jim married his lifelong love, Martha Winston. They first made their first home in Chula Vista, California, and later moved to Pine Valley, California, where they welcomed their two children, Kent Alan Button and Brenda Jean Button.

Jim devoted his career to public service, working for the U.S. government in various roles, including U.S. Customs, the U.S. Border Patrol, and the General Services Administration. His work took the family to many parts of the country, including Texas, Southern California, New Orleans, Chicago, Washington, D.C, and Seattle, where they lived for over 40 years. After retiring in 1993, Jim and Martha settled in Cle Elum, Washington, where they enjoyed a quieter pace of life while still finding ways to stay active and connected to friends and family. Even in retirement, Jim continued to work in security, including roles with Holland America cruise lines and the Federal Reserve Bank in Seattle.

Jim enjoyed camping, boating, hunting, singing, organ music, campfires, and barbeques. Family gatherings were among his greatest joys, and he treasured time spent with loved ones. Jim also had a gift for conversation-Martha often said he "never met a stranger." Whether with lifelong friends or someone he had just met, Jim could strike up a conversation and make a genuine connection with just about anyone. He maintained a large circle of friends throughout his life and worked hard to keep those relationships strong, often calling and visiting old friends and former colleagues.

Jim is survived by his son, Kent, who lives in the Seattle area with his wife, Rachel, and his beloved grandchildren, Hazel, Jax, and Oliver. He is also survived by his sisters, Linda and Corinne. Jim was preceded in death by his father, Clarence, mother, Ernestine, devoted wife, Martha, who passed away in 2023, and his loving daughter, Brenda, who passed away in 2004.

A memorial service will be held later this year, with details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer's Association in Jim's memory.

Jim's warm heart, sense of humor, and unwavering love for family and friends will be remembered always. He touched countless lives with his kindness and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.