James J Zirkle

James J Zirkle passed from this life on Sunday, February 3, 2013. It has been difficult for the family to put words together to describe Jim as they knew him. Even though Jim lived close to his sister, Kris, they did not see each other often. In spite of that, every phone conversation was filled with love, humor and a strong connection only shared between loving family members. Jim grew up mostly in Seattle, with Kris and their brother Rob, along with several neighborhood children. Days were spent having fun with friends and evenings with family. It was an example of a wonderful and carefree childhood. Jim inherited his love of driving from his father. As a small child, Jim would pretend to drive the family car, until he ran the battery down by having the radio on while cruising in his daydreams. This love followed Jim into his time with the Army, and he was absolutely thrilled at the opportunity to drive a tank while serving in the Armored division. Most recently, his love of driving was further present in his time spent riding his Harley. Jim had a big heart, and would happily give the shirt off his back to anyone in need of a helping hand. He loved his family, friends and country. He was a long time employee of Package Containers in Canby. He was on active duty in the Army from February 1969 to January 1971 with final discharge in February 1975. As a patriotic person, Jim had an extensive collection of everything eagle, and seemed to share their spirit. That is why the family's parting words for Jim, ""fly like an eagle"", will be inscribed on his marker. The family often used laughter to carry them through difficult times, and Jim was no exception. He had a wonderful sense of humor that could not be disguised. Even the nurses in the ICU, who only knew Jim a few hours, saw and appreciated his sense of humor, as he kept them laughing. It is a comfort to his family to know Jim kept that sense of humor with him always. He is survived by his brother, Robert Zirkle of Virginia; sister, Kristine Woods of Milwaukie and a daughter, Jamie Kraljev of Portland. Jim was a beloved son, brother and uncle. He will always be loved, remembered and greatly missed. A cemetery service with full Military Honors will be 12noon, Thursday, Feb. 14th at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, OR. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests remembrances in his memory to the American Heart Association.