David Lee James, 73, of Rochester, Washington, passed away Sept. 23, 2023. He was born on May 8, 1950, in Elma, Washington, to the late Adeline and Delbert James. David was preceded in death by his mother, father and brother, Jesse James.
David will be deeply missed by his surviving family members, including his wife, Jeanette; daughters, Anita James and Carolyn Lunsford (James); grandchildren, Becca and Drew Lunsford; twin brother, Donald James; sister, Diane Kilmer; and two other brothers. He also leaves behind numerous cousins and friends who will remember him fondly.
In his professional life, David was a longstanding member of the Operating Engineers, operating various heavy equipment. In the offseason, he would be found running his dump truck around Rochester and Forks. After retirement, he enjoyed baking pies with his grandkids, playing guitar, camping, clam digging, polishing and showing off his “toys” and sitting in his shop BSing with friends and family. In his later years, he was known for his early morning words of encouragement online. David was an outstanding man who prioritized his family above all else. He had a warm and welcoming personality, always striking up conversations with strangers and making them feel at ease.
David Lee James will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his dedication to his profession and his zest for life. May he rest in peace.
A ceremony to celebrate David’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Nov. 4 at Swede Hall, located at 18543 Albany St. SW, Rochester, Washington.
