Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Jim, Beloved and admired Dad, Papa and Papa Great, went peacefully to his eternal home to be with Jesus and the Love of his Life, Betty on the morning of Christmas Eve at home surrounded by family.
Jim was born in Gerard, Kansas on October 24, 1932 to Julian and Ida Decker. Growing up in Gerard, he often helped out in the family restaurant, “Decker’s Diner”. He graduated from high school in 1950 then joined the Navy and proudly served his country during the Korean War. After his time of service ended, he moved with his family to Kennewick, Washington where he met his future wife and love of his life, Betty. He knew immediately this was the girl he would spend the rest of his life with. They were married June 15, 1957 and moved to Seattle where he attended Edison Trade School earning his degree in sheet metal design and fabrication. He was well respected and recognized as one of the best in his trade retiring with more than 30 years in his career.
He and Betty raised their family in the Everett area where their time was filled with activities involving their kids, helping and serving at church or getting together with friends. He was a man of character and integrity who worked hard to provide a stable, Christ centered, loving home for his family. He was passionate about the importance of family and happiest when he was surrounded by his kids and grandkids … a house full of fun, chaos and laughter was what he loved best. He and Betty filled their home with love and acceptance to all who came, Instilling in all of us kids at a very young age the importance of making others feel comfortable and welcome.
After his retirement in June 1995, they moved to Manson, Washington. He and Betty enjoyed many years developing lifelong friendships, being involved with their church in Manson and volunteering in the community. They both loved those years, especially when friends and family would come visit them in their paradise. Jim returned to live in Everett in 2013 to be close to his kids, Grandkids and Great- grandkids.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Julian and Ida Decker; and his loving and devoted wife of 54 years Betty.
He is survived by his brother Joe Decker and his sister Helen Barclay(Bill). His 5 children, Janice Hansen (Randy); Brenda Olson (Brian); Diana Light (Bill); Jim Decker(Jodi); Jeff Decker (Kelly). He is also survived by his 11 grandchildren, Nick Hansen (Kaylee); Matt Hansen(Amanda); Brandon Olson( Sophie); Brittni Klein(Rory); Bruce Olson (Allison); Naomi Burnell; Nathaniel Light; Casey Decker; Shaelyn Decker; Samantha Hively; Rachel Hively and his favorite little Greats. Kasen, Macklen, Asher and Brenner Hansen; Bennet and Wyatt Olson; Bronson, Decker & Chanel Klein; and two more on the way; and his many In-laws and special nieces , nephews and friends whom he loved so much.
Jim was greatly loved and will be missed forever.
A special Thank You to our angels, Gene and Bill for their loving care. Your family became ours.
To our Providence Hospice team we Thank You for your care and compassion.
In Lieu of flowers the family suggest donations to Providence Hospice.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 24, 2018 at Abundant Life Christian Fellowship, 3003 York Road, Everett Wash., 98204
