Milton James Smith Jr. (Jim), 62, passed away Aug. 2, 2006 at Providence Medical Center in Everett due to complications from leukemia.

While in remission for eight months, Jim had looked forward to traveling down the Oregon Coast with his wife Janet and mother Lucille.

Jim was born Sept. 6, 1943 to Milton and Lucille Smith in Seattle.

He spent his early years growing up on Whidbey Island. He graduated from Langley High School in 1961 before serving time in the Air Force.

Jim held several jobs during his working years, including shipping out on tugboats, Boeing, Jack Roberts, Judd and Black, and Sears. Jim enjoyed sales work and helping people. He was forced into early retirement after a stroke in 2003.

Jim enjoyed fishing, crabbing, clamming, gardening and spending time with family. His big dream was to own a 52-inch plasma TV.

Even though still partially paralyzed, diabetic and battling leukemia, JIm remained positive and more concerned with the health and welfare of others. He was a fighter until the very end. Jim’s courage, concern for others, his love for life and family will be his legacy.

He leaves behind his loving companion, caregiver and wife Janet; mother Lucille Smith; sister Connie and husband Bob Alexander; stepsons Lee (Sherry), and Roger (Adel); stepdaughter Cindy (Corey); son Milton James Smith III; grandsons Lance and Dylan; nephew Jeff (Paig) Alexander and family; niece Jenny (Chuck) Simchuk and family; aunts, uncles, several cousins, and his faithful dog, Misty, who was by his side until the very end.

He was preceded in death by his father, grandparents, and several aunts and uncles.

Special thanks to Pastor Mikkel Hustad for his visits and words of comfort and promises with Jim and his family the last two days.

Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 8 at Bayview Cemetery. Cremation and arrangements are by Visser Funeral Home. Pastor Mikkel Hustad will officiate.

Memorials in lieu of flowers can be made to the American Cancer Society at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.