James Whitford,

James Lee Whitford, Sr. was born in Mansfield, WA July 22, 1917, the youngest of four brothers to William and Margaret (Feeney) Whitford. The family initially lived in Waterville on a wheat ranch, later moving to Everett, WA. “Babe” as he was affectionately known, attended St. Dominick’s school in Everett until the family moved to Lake Stevens, WA. He graduated from Lake Stevens High School in 1937. As a youth, he was involved in athletic activities, especially basketball and football. Following graduation, he worked in a family-owned shake mill until joining the US Army in 1942. He married Frances L. Haverfield in 1942. He retired as Director of Maintenance from Edmonds Community College in 1977. He was active in the American Legion and played in the Everett Drum and Bugle Corp. He enjoyed travel and dancing. In 1959, he married Margaret Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Harry, William and Leslie, his wife Margaret and grandson Lee. He is survived by his sons James Lee Whitford, Jr. of Southworth, WA,  Dan A. Whitford (Susan) of Southworth; daughter Carol Danielsen (Michael) of Silverdale, WA; three grandchildren (Shawn Whitford, Jill Danielsen, and Jennifer Anderson); and four great grandchildren (Carolina, Banner, Magnolia, and Augusta Whitford). A graveside inurnment ceremony will be held Monday, August 24, 1PM at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, WA. The family wishes to acknowledge the administration, staff and volunteers of Retsil Veterans Home for the kindness and care he received as a resident. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association, Western and Central Washington Chapter, 12721 30th Ave NE, Suite 101, Seattle, WA 98125.