James W. Allen, 72, passed away June 21, 2012 in Tacoma, WA of breast cancer, which spread two years later to his bones and lungs. He was born July 19, 1939 in Gig Harbor, WA to Frank and Annie (Moore) Allen.
After graduating from South Kitsap High School, he moved to Portland, OR, where he met and married Judith Minor. They had two children, and were divorced in 1976. On Oct. 18, 1977, he married Penelope Rusco.
Jim worked as a journeyman machinist in Portland and Tacoma, making precision parts for pumps and airplanes. He took great pride in his work, and it was joy in his life, having started in the machine shop in high school.
His hobbies included genealogy, computers, gardening and woodworking. He especially enjoyed the vacations he and Penny were able to take after he retired in 2001, visiting many of the nation’s great sights and historical landmarks.
He is survived by his wife Penny, children Susan Jacinto, Jim, and Renee Allen; and step-children Ted, David, Bob, Matt, and Sara Carlson, and Betsy Fernley. He also is survived by 27 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, with whom he took great pride, loving to spend time with them.
Memorial service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3877 SE Mullenix, Port Orchard, WA on Sat., July 7, 2012 at 1 pm.
A luncheon for all family members will be held at 12 pm and the memorial starts at 1. Jim specifically requested "no preaching" at his memorial, so it will be a short and sweet celebration of his life.
