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James Boyle Obituary
Reverend James L. BOYLE The world will miss this loving, compassionate, faith-filled person, devoted servant of God, and friend to many. Fr. James (Jim) Boyle was a Catholic Priest of The Archdiocese of Seattle for 50 years. He was born Jan. 15, 1935 in Tacoma and died Dec. 30, 2011 in Fife. The youngest of six boys raised on the family farm in Puyallup, he was preceded in death by his Swiss-born mother, Rose, and Irish-born father, Edward, as well as brothers Rev. Edward Boyle, Martin and John. He is survived by brothers Donald of Edgewood and Patrick of Shoreline, in addition to 16 nieces and nephews. Fr. Jim attended St. Edwards Seminary and was ordained May 20, 1961 at St. James Cathedral. After spending six years at Holy Rosary in West Seattle (61-67), followed by five years at All Saints in Puyallup (67-72) and four years at St. Aloyous in Buckley (72-76), Fr. Jim devoted his next 35 years to serving the spiritual needs of the developmentally disabled, their families and care providers. He was the long-time chaplain for Rainier School in Buckley, Fircrest School in Seattle, as well as L'Arche Homes in the region. He also co-founded a religious education program, REX, for the disabled. In recognition of his ministry to serve the poor and suffering, Fr. Jim was given the diocese's prestigious Hunthausen Humanitarian Award in 2006. Funeral mass: Jan 11, 11 am at St Charles Borromeo (7112 S 12th St, Tacoma). Celebrant: Seattle Archbishop J. Peter Sartain. Reception to follow. Internment: Jan. 12 at Calvary Cemetery, Seattle. Funeral directors: Hoffner Fisher & Harvey. Remembrance donations: L'Arche Noah's Workshop and Farm and Gardens, 12319-36th Ave E, Tacoma, WA 98446.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Boyle
Sponsored by anonymous.
Sue and RIcky
January 2, 2024
Forever in our hearts. Ricky, Sue and the L'Arche Tahoma Hope Community
Jeff Monaghan
September 23, 2016
In the years preceding the death of my own father, I cared for my Dad in a manner inspired by the people of L'Arche. I honor them as I honored him. Peace to you who read this.
I was recently on retreat at the Abbey of St. John's in Collegeville, MN, when I thought of Fr. Jim in prayer. Fr. Jim knew his place in the world; his courage, gentleness, peace, humor and strength have remained in my memory. I credit him for gracefully introducing me to the kingdom of God within & creating a larger awareness of my own place in the world. God's love is real, and Fr. Jim showed me that gift in others & himself. He held firm to his vision of heaven, and for that I am grateful.
We should all know we are in His heart forever. We felt His touch and saw the face of God in Fr. Jim. He was blessed and brought us all to a new creation.
February 3, 2012
I so miss Fr. Jimmy and always will. He was such a gift in my life. His goodness will live in me always. Joan
Sue Hudacek
January 25, 2012
Words cannot express the depth of our loss. Our hearts are broken. There is a huge void in our lives. It is hard to imagine not having our beloved Fr. Jimmy coming to say mass at our Hopespring Chapel with Stacie setting the altar and Ricky at his side. We love you Fr. Jimmy and know that you will not leave us orphans. Thank you for the past 35 years of walking with us at L'Arche Tahoma Hope.
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Mimi Krsak
January 13, 2012
Fr. Jimmy was certainly a treasured part of my life. I will miss days of sharing the L'Arche Covenant at his cabin on the canal. I will miss the fun times, the prayer times, the walks, the silence...all of it. We were all lucky to experience the love of this amazing man.
Micael Campbell
January 12, 2012
Father Boyle was a very much liked person at Rainier School in Buckley. My 30 years there and seeing him never without a smile or kind word.
Shelly Rubatino
January 12, 2012
“Friendship is the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person, neither having to weigh thoughts nor measure words”
It was a privilege to walk with you Jimmy, in L'Arche and in life. It was easy to delight in your presence! We could talk about anything, pray in silence, or laugh till the tears would roll down our cheeks. I am filled with gratitude for all you shared with us, your profound wisdom and simple words, your ability to forgive, your kindness, for how you lived your life. I pray for your family and friends as they grieve. I believe in angels and trust with your new wings you will continue to watch over us.
…as Bill Downey would say “I will hold you in my heart forever” rest in peace dear friend, rest in peace.
Debi Toman
January 11, 2012
I have so many memories of Father Jim from the 1980s when I lived at L'arche Noah Sealth - especially his gentle wisdom and laugh. He is a man who truly loved Jesus.
KG
January 11, 2012
I was very saddened to hear of Father Boyle's passing. He was a kind and giving man with a very gentle soul. He touched so many lives and will be greatly missed. A true Angel has walked through the gates of Heaven. It was an honor to call you friend. Rest in Peace.
Mike Childers
January 11, 2012
I knew Father Jim for many years during my work at Rainier School. We used to have some great conversations about life, and his wisdom and kindness always showed through. He was always there to lend an ear and a shoulder to the staff and the clients of Rainier School when life got rough. If there is a heaven, and if you get there by the kindness you have shown to others in need, then I have no doubt he is there.
Jim Manville
January 11, 2012
Fr. Boyle was a friend to all. We loved him, respected him, enjoyed him and were inspired by him. Thank you Fr. Boyle for giving hope and your love to so many. You will always inspire me. Say “hi” to Mikey for me and please feel free to stop by for a chat. I have a few questions.
Eileen Hensler
January 11, 2012
Father Boyle was a person I truly respected. He was (to me) a person who brought peace to the finite of my father's life, and helped to continue my Mother's life beyond her husband. He helped bring Peace to her world. Father Jim was a beautiful giving person. I will really feel his loss in this world.
Evangelist Missionary Tressie Wilkins
January 11, 2012
Father Boyle, thank you for your love and kindness. You will be missed beyond any comparison.You made working at Rainier School so much more than just wanting a paycheck. I learned to see my job as God preparing me for my own ministry. Words cannot express how you alone left such an impact on everyone that has ever worked at Rainier State School.
Don and Father Jimmy at the Swiss Park! Thanks for the picture Kathy!
Christy & Boys (Mike, Steve and Andy)
January 10, 2012
Love you Father Jimmy (Uncle Jimmy)!! We will all miss you so very much. We know you are in good company.... Grandpa, Grandma Rose, Father Ed, Uncle John, Uncle Marty and Aunt TC, Cousin Mike, Cousin Brad, Uncle (cousin) John and Aunt Kathleen and unfortunately, so many more. I hope you think about us from time to time (Cuz Aunt TC will be busy catching you up on Heaven and everything) ; ) ... We know you are in a happy and beautiful place! You so exemplified the best of our family and Gods family! Love you too Dad (Grandpa).... So sorry for the loss of your amazing brother and good friend!!
Fr. Dick Parle
January 10, 2012
Jimmie, Can't be there, but have been offering Masses for. God rest you and reward you for your exemplary love of God's little ones.
David Rothrock
January 10, 2012
What a privelege and grace it has been in my life to have known and been a friend of Fr. Jim Boyle for 35 years. We have shared much together and I treasure it. We learn what Jesus wants to teach us through the lives of holy people. I learned so very much from Fr. Jimmy. He saw and lived so clearly the mystery that the message of Jesus is deep in the hearts and lives of the poor, the suffering, the weak. My hope is that we don't forget what Fr. Jim taught us - what the gospel teaches us. The best way we can honor Fr. Jim is to try to try to live in our own lives the blessing and grace of welcoming the poor among us - as he did.
I am working in Haiti and not able to attend the funeral mass. But I send my love, my prayers and condonences to all of Fr. Jim's family and frinds - but especially to his brothers Don and Pat and to all the family. What a blessing your brohter Jimmy was to so many and let us give thanks to God for such a wonderful person among us.
David Rothrock
January 10, 2012
Father Boyle could always see the good in others and there special gifts, but he was so humble about all of his. I was saddened to hear of the worlds loss. He will be missed by many.
Doug / Chris Nielsen
January 10, 2012
i just want to say that we lost one of the most loved man of god my wife and i ever knew. weloved him so much and i know the Rainier state school family feels the way we do. we love you Rev Boyle, we will never forget you!
Marian Gray
January 10, 2012
We were not ready to say goodbye and will miss Father Boyle beyond words. Heaven has truly gained an angel. Wally & Marian Gray
Sandy mostoller
January 10, 2012
Jimmy's words and actions were all to LOVE one another. He knew and wanted us to know that love heals the pain of ALL wounds--the obvious and those hidden in darkness. He was a gift to each of us who knew him and he will always be loved and remembered. His smile, his hugs, his laugh, his passion for his beliefs and his infinite patience for our failures to follow the examples he set for us has changed us and will continue to do so. Infinities of LOVE Jimmy!
Matt O'Brien
January 10, 2012
We Loved you Father Jimmy, say hi to Mike for me...:)
Brian and Pat Daw
January 10, 2012
It was sad to learn of Fr. Jim's death. But I, as all of you, share the joy of our Risen Savior and know for sure that this sacred, humble man walks with Jesus in heaven. Truly he was a guiding light to us who journeyed with him as we were blessed to serve together on the National Board of Faith and Light. As our Chaplin, we were all nourished and enjoyed many fun times...I will never forget that unique and contagious giggle.
For those of you so close to Fr. Jim, his family, fellow priests, those he lived and shared with...I express our deepest sorrow for the pain you feel. We will keep you in our prayers.
We pray for a peaceful rest for a deserving Fr. Jim.
Martin Rafferty
January 9, 2012
It was with great sadness the news of Father Jim's passing reached us in London. A lovely man who will be missed by anyone who ever had the pleasure of his company.
those we loved don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear!
David and Helen McFarland
January 9, 2012
Evangelist Missionary Tressie Wilkins
January 9, 2012
Father Boyle was one of the most kindest and one of the most humble persons that exemplified Christ. He did not have to walk around with a bible in his hand or wave a banner in the air. Everyone that ever met him or knew him could see that his life was led by the spirit of God. The clients at Rainier school loved him very much. He treated them with love and respect. I pray that his passing did not leave the chapel without a priest or Friar. The clients loved going to the chapel. Father Boyle never closed the service without letting the clients sing a song.
Barbara Vesey
January 9, 2012
Father Jim, you will be missed. You were there for us when our Father passed away way back in 1974 and then again for the baptism for our daughter, Gina. You were truly an inspiration to us all. We will miss seeing your smiling face at the Swiss Park.
Greg and Barbara (Grab) Vesey
January 9, 2012
Farewell Fr. Jimmy. We love you and will see you again. Rest well. love Teri and Guy Picard
Teres & Danny Millar
January 9, 2012
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our dear friend Jimmy.We met some 35 years ago when Fr Jimmy was living in Tacoma at the first L'Arche Home with David Rothrock and Peter Byrne. We were all young then and determined to change the world one heart at a time! Over the years we worked, played, and prayed together through Faith and Light {a support group for the developmentally disabled]. Jimmy was our chaplain. As we look back now we will always remember him for his deep faith,his infectious laughter, his playfulness and sense of adventure, and above all, his ability to be present to whomever he was with. Well Jimmy, you have changed us all. Everyone you meet is better because of you. We will love you forever. With Peace and Gratitude, Teres and Danny Millar
WOW, you really let that Light of yours shine!
Ron Kline
January 9, 2012
I served as a alter boy at All Saints Church Puyallup 45 years ago for two wonderful Men, Fr.Boyle and Fr.O'brian and just the other day I was sharing some funny stories from those days, so to read of Fr.Boyles passing truly caught Me off guard, But I will say our loss and Heavens gain, RIP Fr. Boyle
Sr Alies Therese
January 9, 2012
Jimmy filled his loneliness with the little ones. His heart was great and he laughed in order not to cry. He loved an unseen God...followed a Jesus who loved the poor and walked in darkness by the stars.He offered us the invitation to holiness and let the poor teach the message of hope. He offered me the gold standard of life and ministry.My condolences to his wide-ranging family. Rock on JB!
Charlene Middlekauff
January 8, 2012
There was never a purer soul or a more patient man.
Beulah Oelke
January 8, 2012
Thank you Father Boyle for enriching the lives of so many. You will be sorely
missed by so many.
Roger and Beulah Oelke
Eatonville
Janet Dildine
January 8, 2012
His love and caring nature will always be in everyone hearts he was the meaning of Kind his gentle ways will nver be fogotten
Judy Fosberg
January 8, 2012
Father Boyle as we all knew him from was such a caring devoted man to the client family and staff at Rainier School. I can't tell you how much he will be missed by so many.. RIP to a wonderful decated man..
Marcy Johnsen
January 8, 2012
I remember Father Boyle from Holy Rosary when I was young and from Fircrest where I also worked. What a wonderful, kind person. I have and will continue to think of him fondly and with the greatest admiration. My condolences to the family.
Dorothy M Phillips
January 8, 2012
RIP truely a great man glad to have had the chance to know you for the work you done out at Rainier School you will be missed gone but not forgotten thank you
John Messina
January 8, 2012
God bless Father Jim. I went to school with him over half a century ago and remember his kind and gentle ways especially as my table captain, making sure we all got even shares of food. I am sure that those of you who were close to him have lost a good friend.
Kris Landers
January 8, 2012
A wonderful man who will be missed by so many , I work with many of those who attended his services out at RS and they all truly loved the man ..may he RIP
Kathie Manville
January 8, 2012
Words cannot possibly express who this man was. I can simply say that he said "yes" to God. God reached through him and touched so many. A true shepherd and faithful friend. He delighted in little stories of truth,that bubbled forth in a wonderful giggle. I am so fortunate to have spent time with this great man of faith. Peace is yours, my friend. My condolences to his family whom he loved so dearly and to the many many people who called him friend.
Lisa Egloria
January 8, 2012
There are no words to describe the sadness felt when I heard the news of Fr. Jim's passing. He was a man who truly lived his faith. It was an honor to know and work with him. You will be so missed.
Janet Dildine
January 8, 2012
He brought many smiles too many people and showed us what true love really is he was a kind gentle man who shared his wonderful heart with everyone he touched he will never be forgotten at Rainier or those who encountered him
Marie Hines
January 8, 2012
Marie Hines He was a good man! He put himself out for others, always there for our clients who loved him! He will be missed by many! ?
January 8, 2012
we have known father jimmy for over 27 years. he will be missed. it is a reminder of our own mortality when one of our dear friends goes home to heaven. we were two handicappers and young and in love when we met him, and even though we are older now with grey hair and memories of our own, we are still together because of his prayers
love and regards, pj neff, jv kaydus
Tricia Peterson
January 8, 2012
Thank you Uncle Jimmy for always walking with me. I Love you, & miss you.
Anne Melly (nee) Boyle
January 8, 2012
Words cannot express out sadness at ,fr.jim's sudden passing,so glad we spoke before christmas,he was talking about taking a trip to Ireland this summer,sadly that wont happen now,all we have now are good memories of your visits to Ireland,To Don and Pat and family all we can offer you is our deepest sympathy,may he rest in peace.
January 8, 2012
This mans name was "Love, Compassion,Trust, Friend" He will be totally missed. Jim & Pat Litzen
Michelle Hilton
January 8, 2012
He truly was an inspiration to all that new him from Rainier School with his faith and love not only for the clients he devoted his life to but staff as well. When you felt down or sad he was always there to listen and to give gods words. Will miss his presence and his faith that flowed through the institution, that will never ever be forgotten. He was the work of God as he was compassionate for his work in helping those that are imperfect. It was an honor to know him and so sorry to hear and I know he will be missed greatly by all who he touched.
Larry Thompson
January 8, 2012
It was an honor to know and work with this kind, gentle and deeply spiritual man while I worked at Rainier School. He was a friend to all, deeply respected by staff and families and loved by the patients he served so compassionately. He will be deeply missed.
January 8, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with his 2 surviving brothers and their families. My family and his grew up together in St. John of the Woods parish in (Midland) Tacoma. He also preached one of the retreats my son, Nick, and I attended at palisades Retreat. His brother, Martin, and I were in the same class at Bellarmine H. S. in Tacoma.
Leo E. Gilman,
Centralia, WA
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