James W. Carlson

James “Jim” Werner Carlson passed away on Wednesday, December 23rd at the age of 85 in Wenatchee after living a life full of love, laughter, music, writing, and as the patriarch of his ever growing family. Born in Wenatchee in 1930, to Roy Werner Carlson and Lela Alice Brennan Carlson, Jim spent his childhood in Wauconda, WA, and also lived in Republic, Tonasket, Cashmere, and Wenatchee, with his parents and siblings. In 1947, Jim enlisted in the United States Navy and served for several years, where he was assigned to and completed the prestigious Naval Electronics School at Treasure Island, and also spent time stationed on Guam, which based on the countless Navy stories told to the family through the years, was one of the highlights of his life. Jim began his career with Sears in Wenatchee as an electronics technician in 1954, with a career lasting nearly 40 years, retiring as the service manager. Jim is survived by his wife of 45 years, Clara, whom he first met in 1944 when he was a telegram delivery boy for Western Union. Their paths crossed multiple times throughout the years, but it wasn’t until 1970 that Jim and Clara married. Jim became a father to Clara’s four children, and their family grew with two more daughters, many grandchildren, great grandchildren and a great, great grandson. Music was a big part in Jim’s life; having played the upright bass and singing in many bands throughout the years. He enjoyed playing with many fellow musicians and friends. He and Clara, being quite the accomplished dance partners, spent many an evening twirling on the dance floor to his favorite music. Jim found his calling to become a writer in the later years of his life. Having taught himself how to use a computer in his late 70s, Jim authored many stories and novels based on ideas that had been in his mind for many, many years. As part of a seniors writing group, Jim penned numerous novels and collections of short stories, of which he was very proud to see in print. The hours he spent with his fellow writers brought him great joy, hours of insightful conversation, and camaraderie with fellow writers. Jim will always be remembered for his quick wit and vast story telling ability. He entertained the family and friends around the dinner table with his tall tales and shaggy dog stories. His surviving children include John, Cindy, Jamie, and Melissa, and Jim considered his sons and daughters-in law his children as well, Cathy, Dan, and Michael. Jim and Clara’s sons Mark and Jeff preceded him in death. He is also survived by dear family friend Sue Seabright. His grandchildren: Aaron and Angie, Michael and Jill, Corey, Vanessa and Steven, Julie and Jason, Jamie, Michael III, and Jackson, brought him much joy throughout the years, as did his great grandchildren Shawna, Hayden, Kylie, Emily, Matthias, Conner, Jacoby and Lily. Jim was also the very proud papa of the newest addition to the family, his great, great grandson Kaiden. Jim is survived by his siblings Norman (Skip), John, Nina and Judy. His brother Noel, mother, father, step father Robert Whitman preceded him in death. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Wenatchee Senior Activity Center An open house celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 2nd from 1:00 – 4:00 pm at the family home. Please express your thoughts and memories on the online guest book at jonesjonesbetts.com. Arrangements are by Jones & Jones – Betts Funeral Home.

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James W. Carlson

January 16, 1930 - December 23, 2015