James Irving Newhouse

James Irving Newhouse, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and farmer, passed away on July 26, 2024, at the age of 75 at his home in Yakima. He was born in 1949 in Sunnyside Washington to Irving and Ruth Newhouse.

A 1967 graduate of Sunnyside High School, Jim was an active member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA). He was also a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity at Washington State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1974. Jim returned to the family farm to grow apples, cherries, nectarines, wine grapes, and hops. He had a tireless work ethic, especially during harvest season. Jim served for 12 years as a board supervisor for the South Yakima Conservation District.

Beyond farming, Jim was a man of diverse interests and talents. He delighted in jigsaw puzzles, crosswords (in ink), sudoku, solitaire, and had an uncanny talent for trivia. He was an avid bowler and played in a league regularly for several years. Jim made many friends playing softball in a local Sunnyside league. During baseball season Jim would always have a game tuned in; he was a dedicated Mariners fan. He enjoyed woodworking and hands-on projects like modifying semi-truck trailers. He could often be found reading newspapers and books, sometimes having three books in progress at one time. Jim was interested in the people of the community and was always up for a lively conversation. He loved sharing jokes, sometimes making people blush, but always humorous.

Jim had a sweet tooth for vanilla ice cream, a fondness for Pepsi, and a love of coffee (black, no cream, no sugar). He traveled more after he retired, enjoying time with family and friends on various excursions. Jim enjoyed his travels, including a cruise to Alaska and several trips to Hawaii, he had an affinity for the island of Kauai. His legacy will live on through his family and friends. Jim will be remembered for his sharp mind and quick humor.

Jim is survived by his wife of 24 years, Karen; son Adam (Kristina) Newhouse and stepdaughter Nicole (Nathan) O’Connor; five grandchildren; siblings Joyce (Darrell) Downing, Dan (Joan) Newhouse, and Dorothy (Rich) Hibbard; brothers-in-law Bruce Thomas and Frank Rogers; and many nieces, nephews, and relatives. He cherished his time with them. Jim was preceded in death by his mother and father; his sisters Linda Thomas and Laura Rogers; and his late wife Carolyn Chott. Jim loved and was loved by his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.

Per Jim’s request there will be a Celebration of Life on September 7th, 2024 at 1:00 – 4:00, at Sunnyside Christian Reformed Church, 700 N. 16th St, Sunnyside, WA 98944. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Washington FFA at http://ffa.org/Donate or a charity of your choice. Those wishing to sign Jim's online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home Sunnyside is in care of arrangements.

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