Jim was born to Alvin and Elizabeth Roth on April 8, 1949 in Silverton, Oregon. He passed away in the early morning hours on October 17, 2021 at the age of 72.

Jim was a rambunctious child which would be a theme throughout his life. He went to Elementary School at Silver Crest and had many fond memories of his time there as a student and an athlete. Jim attended Silverton Union High School where he stood out as an athlete participating in football, wrestling and baseball. He truly excelled especially in wrestling where he finished his Senior season as a state finalist.

His experiences at Silverton Union High School led him to go on to college to pursue teaching and coaching. Jim received his Bachelor's degree from Pacific University in 1972 where he wrestled, played football, and golf. He received his Master's in Education from Lewis and Clark University in 1977.

His first teaching job was at Sherman County High School where he taught Science, PE and Drivers Ed along with coaching football and wrestling. He made lifelong friends of many of the students and athletes he taught. After two years at Sherman County, he taught one year at Lebanon High School before getting the opportunity to return to Silverton as a PE and Health Teacher at Silverton Union High School. At Silverton Jim coached football and wrestling.

After several years at Silverton Jim decided on a career change and started working for Contel in their warehouse and eventually worked on the Contel line crew and in the Tigard office. From there Jim worked for the Salem School district in their communications department.

Jim started the Silverton Mat club in 1976 upon his return to Silverton where they had 100 kids on the mat at the first Wednesday night practice. A few years later he was a part of a group that brought Boys and Girls club football to Silverton and coached the inaugural lightweight team.

Jim was a competitor throughout his life. He loved running, road biking and golfing. He completed a half marathon and biked the Seattle to Portland ride. He started golfing in college and kept golfing throughout his life. He loved camping and fishing with his family at Marion Creek.

During retirement Jim worked on his farm. He loved his family and after retirement he spent many days watching his grandkids in their many activities. He especially loved his trips to Hawaii with his granddaughter and loved watching his grandson play football.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Celeste, his children, Jamie (Sarah), Jodi (Eric), his grandchildren Emma and Hayden, his siblings Vicki Cronin, Don (Diane), Dan (Tammy) and Becky (Chuck) Ramage, and many nieces and nephews and friends.

Jim led a life of service to his family, friends, and community. He never met a stranger and made sure everyone felt welcomed and accepted. His bright smile, laughter, and hello's will be missed.

The Funeral Service will be Oct. 29 at St Paul's Church. Rosary at 10:30, Mass at 11 with a luncheon to follow at the Parish Hall.