James Melvin "Jim" Budnick Jr's Obituary
Jim, 66 of Buckley, WA, passed away suddenly on July 17th, 2019 at home due to complications of congestive heart failure, COPD, and esophageal cancer.
Jim was born in Tacoma on March 11, 1953 to James M. Budnick, Sr., and Janet (Bertaccini) Sullivan. Jim graduated in 1971 from Lincoln High School. Shortly after graduating he joined the Navy service 6 years while in San Diego, CA, he received his electrician training and certification which led him to his job at Boeing.
Jim’s greatest source of pride was the home he build on 5 acres in Graham. Throughout the years he owned and operated several businesses in the Graham, Eatonville area, and made investments in real estate.
Restoring cars, hunting, fishing, boating and camping with his family at Mason Lake were other activities he enjoyed. He was a great cook and was known for his famous spaghetti sauce (not ever cleaning up his mess). His special knack for telling great life stories (as he had many to tell) will be remembered forever. Well known for his sense of humor, quick wit and that infections smile, he ah a gentle soul and compassionate heart, which he wore on his sleeve.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Lila of 17 years and her children, Breann Ressler of Puyallup, Tommy Wood of Olympia and Jacob (Justine) Wood of Bonney Lake. His dear mother Janet Sullivan of Tacoma, brothers Jerry Sullivan, of Tacoma, Bob Sullivan (deceased) Mark (Kelly) Budnick and sister Kelly (Budnick)Roth.
Children Jason (Kristi) Budnick, Tim Budnick, Jimmy Budnick, daughters Jaime Budnick and Ashley (Dwayne) Long. Step children Michael (Rhonda) Ryan, Jalynne (David) Oum. 24 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
Jim is preceded in death by his father James M. Budnick, Sr., step-father Patrick Sullivan and special family friend Loren Kiesel.
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