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Donald Harry James, 72, of Coulee Dam, Washington, passed away surrounded by his loving family at his home following a brave battle with cancer, Friday evening, December 6, 2019. Born in Keller Washington to John & Susan Tskulnast-James on Thursday, February 27, 1947, Donald attended Coulee Dam High School, in Coulee Dam, graduating "Class of 1966". On September 20, 1966, Donald enlisted in the US Army, honorably serving two tours for his country during the Vietnam Conflict with the 101st Airborne Division. Receiving his AA degree from San Jose Community College, Donald worked as a Data Processor for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, from 1989 until his retirement in 2000.
A proud member of the Colville Confederated Tribes and devout Catholic, Donald belonged to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Nespelem, Washington. Always active, he had been in the Omak Stampede Suicide Race, done bull riding, participated in and coached community league basketball and enjoyed spending time in the out of doors cutting wood. Though a huge Seahawks fan who tried to never miss a game, all who knew Donald, found his greatest joy in life was time spent spoiling his grandchildren, each of whom was "the light of his world."
Predeceased by both of his parents; brothers: Wayne, Jimmy and Harvey and sisters: Wilma, Lori and Diane; Donald's proud legacy lives on through his children: Kevin James (Lolita Crispin), Tammy James and James James (Breanne); grandchildren: Tenzin James, Cecelia James, Kamea Pino, Brandon Pino, Xaylon James and Jrue James; great-grandchild: D'Brylan James; brothers: John James Jr., Glen James (Becky LaCourse) and Victor James; sisters: Lois James, T.C. James and Brenda James; numerous nephews and nieces; son-by-choice: Ryan Pino; close Vietnam Veteran Friends: Luis Lopez and Joe Atkins and best friends from childhood: Juan Denny and John Junky Pakootas Sr.
Donald's dressing took place at 10 am on Tuesday, December 10, 2019, at Strate Funeral Home in Grand Coulee, Washington, followed by a 7 pm wake at the Nespelem Community Center in Nespelem, Washington. His Sunrise Funeral Service began at 6am on Wednesday, December 11, 2019 at the Nespelem Community Center, followed by his graveside service with military honors in the Nespelem Catholic Cemetery.
Strate Funeral Home of Grand Coulee, Washington is assisting his family.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.stratefuneralhome.com for Donald's family.
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