James Ormond

1938 - 2025

James Ormond was born on February 9, 1938, in Giltner, Nebraska, to James and Marie Ormond. He grew up with his younger brother, Frank, in a modest home without electricity, running water, or indoor plumbing. Summers were spent working on his grandparents' farm, shaping the strong work ethic and resilience that carried him throughout his life.

In 1958, James came to Oregon for work as a tile contractor before serving in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1961. Stationed in Heidelberg, Germany, he worked as a clerk at the United States Army European Headquarters. After his service, James set his sights on a new career. In 1962, he traveled to Seattle seeking work with Boeing, but when the employment office was closed, he crossed the street to Western Electric. He was hired on the spot, beginning a 26-year career in the telephone industry with Western Electric and later GTE, where he retired in 1988.

That same year, 1962, James married Roberta "Bobbe" Robb. Together they began their life on the West Coast, first in San Francisco before settling in Oregon. In 1967 they purchased their family home in Tualatin, where they raised their two children, Jon (born 1968) and Kelley (born 1973).

James had a lifelong love of rodeos, traveling, camping, and hunting. His family often suspected that the true joy of his hunting trips came less from the chase and more from the camaraderie-time spent with friends, evenings of cards, and the peace of the wilderness.

In 2010, James married Betty Layton, and the two made their home together in Newberg, Oregon.

James is survived by his son Jon Ormond and his wife Angela; his daughter Kelley Raz and her husband Terry; and his grandson, Casey. He is also survived by his wife, Betty. He was preceded in death by his brother, Frank.

James will be remembered for his dedication to family, his service to his country, and his many years contributing to the telephone industry. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, humor, and deep appreciation for life's simple joys.