James Wesley Welden was born Sept 12, 1917 to Oscar and Grace Welden in Seattle. He passed away peacefully at his home on Holmes Harbor on Whidbey Island on July 8, 2010 to be with his Lord Jesus.

He graduated from Lincoln High School where he was an accomplished athlete and attended University Puget Sound on an athletic scholarship.

As a young man he worked a a surveyor for the U.S. Department of Reclamation in the building of Grand Coulee Dam, and later intensive work in Alaska. He then joined his father’s company, Welden Construction of Seattle and was a partner with two brothers until he retired at which time he and his wife, Julie, moved from their home in Seattle to Whidbey Island.

He was a lifelong member of the carpenters’ union and received numerous awards for his architectural achievements and as a master carpenter for more than 50 years. After retirement he was an active member of the South Whidbey Kiwanis and received various awards for his volunteer efforts.

Jim and Julie traveled extensively in retirement and enjoyed many trips and cruises around the world.

Jim was a tender man with a huge heart full of love. His greatest joy was spending good times with his family, which he cherished.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Julie, of 63 years; two brothers and one sister.

He is survived by sons James R. Welden (Leslie); and Daniel C. Welden, (Patricia); daughter Marsha D. McGowan (Martin); and his six grandsons, James Welden Jr. (Troy Skott), Matthew Welden (Wendy), Sean McGowan (Jennifer), Marc Welden (Madison), John Welden (Kathy), and Casey McGowan (Valerie); and his six great-grandchildren, Ragen, Alice, Alexandra, Etta, Kieran and Kenedi; and his brother Grant.

The family wishes to thank Jim’s wonderful caregiver, Dan Haldeman, for his devoted care and friendship.

A memorial service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, Jim’s church of many years, at 1 p.m. Friday, July 16, and a reception following at the Welden residence, 5121 Bercot Road.

Memorials requested by the family can be made to the South Whidbey Kiwanis, PO Box 153, Langley, WA 98260. or Trinity Lutheran Church, 18341 Highway 525, Freeland, WA 98249.