Feb. 19, 1922 - Mar. 4, 2015
James (Jim) Yoakum passed peacefully at home in Carson City, NV on March 4th, shortly after his 93rd birthday with loving family at his side. Jim was born in Perrydale, OR on February 19, 1922 to Mamie (Kunz) Hicketheir and James E Yoakum. During his three years of gallant service as a medical supply sergeant in the South Pacific during WW II he earned a Bronze Service Arrowhead, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Good Conduct and Victory Medals and Philippine Liberation Medal with two Bronze Service Stars. He returned to comlete his education at the University of Oregon. In 1948 he married Lillian (Sundsten) in Cascade Locks, OR. They had three children born in Portland, OR: Richard, Gary and Lisa. In 1965 they all moved to Timonium, MD where he continued a long successful career with Black & Decker. In 1979 they moved to San Ramon, CA to finish his career. Upon retirement they began the role of caretakers in The Dalles, OR for Lillian’s aging parents, Albin and Jean (Mallory) Sundsten. Shortly thereafter Lillian was stricken with lymphoma and lost that battle in 1992 after two years. For several years he cared for ailing aunts, uncles and cousins. In 1996 Jim moved to Gardnerville, NV to live with his daughter Lisa (Olney) and her family. He had a substantial role in the raising of two of his seven grandchildren, Mallory and Michael. He had a profound effect on all of his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who knew him. Throughout his life, he found great joy in woodworking, making fun and useful creations for so many people over the years. He is survived by his children; Richard (Linda) Yoakum, Gary Yoakum (Debbie Lane), Lisa (Bill Roy) McAlister. Grandchildren; Jason (Tanis) Yoakum, Matthew Yoakum (Michael Meckley), James Yoakum (Jamie), Jeffrey Yoakum, Brian (Erica) Yoakum, Mallory Olney and Michael Olney. Great grandchildren; LilyAnn Yoakum, Madison Yoakum, Garrian Phanhthy. A memorial celebration will be held at the McAlister home on Sunday March 8th from 12:00p to 4:00p with a special memory time at 2:00p. For additional information or directions, please call Lisa at 775-790-3855.
