James "JK" Keele

Birth date: Jul 23, 1967 Death date: Oct 18, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of James Kim Keele, our wonderful and loving Son, Brother, Uncle, Nephew, Cousin and Friend. James was born on July 23, 1967, in Seoul, South Korea and passed on Saturday, October Read Obituary

Wall Obituary Events Media

Adam Paulson

16m ago

in honor of James.

Some friendships are forged in fire—others in laughter, long runs, and epic gaming sessions. Mine with James was all of the above. From the moment we met, James wasn’t just a friend—he was my brother in spirit, a co-pilot through life’s wild ride.

Participating in Summer track, just going on long runs from University Place to Hilltop and back, or out to Fox Island over the Narrows Bridge and back, for no reason other than to just go and do a thing, were our way of chasing dreams and outrunning worries. James made every mile feel like a story worth telling.

Spending time just sitting and reflecting on all things --- Religion, Politics, Science, Family etc.

Then there were the days of “Road Warrior” — James, Andre, and me, tearing through the TCC park and ride and Safeway parking lot on our 10-speed bikes trying to "take each other's bikes out". We destroyed those bikes but built something stronger: a bond that could never be broken.

James gave me my first taste of college life, inviting me up to UW for the weekend while I was still in high school. He didn’t just open his dorm room—he opened a door to possibility. That’s who he was: always lifting others up, always showing the way.

And oh, the gaming. Pen and paper adventures in Modern, D&D, Delta World, Star Trek, etc. Online MMOs where we battled side by side. James was the kind of player who made the game better just by being in it. His quote of “I got this!” has led to the saying of "I'm at I got this status!" between his closest of friends and will forever bring laughter with classic memories.

I could go on and on ......

James wasn’t just part of my life. He helped shape it. His memory lives in every run, every roll of the dice, every moment I whisper, “I got this,” and feel him beside me.

Rest well, James. You were legendary. And you always will be.

A lighted pale blue candle with a small white flower and a few leaves at its base, set against a soft blue background.

Aly (Shryku)

17h ago

There are some friendships that change the entire course of your life, and for me, that was James. I’ll always be grateful that he invited me out to play pool that night; I had no idea it would lead me to finding my second family. Those pool nights became something special, especially when “Rake It Up” came on! Because without fail, James would be on his feet, dancing like nobody was watching (and of course, everyone was! 😜)

James wasn’t just my best friend, he was my anchor through some of the hardest moments in my life. When we both lost our jobs, when I had rough days and just needed someone to talk to, he was there. Always. No hesitation, no judgment, just James being James, reminding me that things would be okay.

We spent countless hours gaming with Clay, Reese, Adam, and Andre, building a world of inside jokes and unforgettable nights. We even made a “board” to capture all our ridiculous quotes and moments! A small tribute to the laughter that followed James wherever he went.

There are far too many memories to fit into one post, but one thing is for sure, James will always be remembered for the care he gave to everyone around him, for that big, genuine smile, and for those legendary dance moves that could light up any room! 🕺🏽

I like to think that wherever he is now, he’s in a place where the fish are always biting, the games never lag, and there’s an endless supply of Monopolowa, because if anyone deserves that kind of peace and joy forever, it’s James ❤️

Alyssa F.

17h ago

Planted a grove of 3 Memorial Trees in honor of James.

A vibrant green tree flourishes in a sunny area, showcasing thick leaves and a sturdy trunk.

Plant a tree

Shivan Muhiaddin

2d ago

Still can’t believe you’re gone, my brother. You weren’t just a friend, you were family. We shared so many memories, laughter, and moments I’ll never forget. It’s hard to accept that you’re no longer with us, but your spirit, kindness, and love will always stay in my heart.
Rest in peace, my brother. You’ll never be forgotten. 🙏😔.

Erica Santamaria

2d ago

in honor of James.

I don’t even know where to start...James was truly one of a kind, one of the most caring, genuine people I’ve ever met.
I had worked around James for several years before 2018, when he and Vince finally convinced me to come out for Friday night pool. At the time, I was going through a really rough patch in my life, trying to get out of a bad marriage. James was so excited to have another KSD crew member join, and he made me feel so welcome. It felt good to have an escape, to be around friends and laughter again.
Over the years, James became a great friend. After countless rounds of rock-paper-scissors for pool teams, we always ended up picking scissors together, it became our running joke. He even got me the nicest, sharpest pair of scissors I’ve ever seen.
Our Friday night crew turned into family, from cutting-down-tree parties to days at the river, we made so many good memories. I’m so thankful for James’s friendship and for how he welcomed me when I needed it most.
James, you will be deeply missed. Thank you for sharing your kind and caring heart with all of us.

Vincenzo Santamaria

2d ago

James was kind, compassionate, and full of life. For two years before the pandemic, I was part of the crew that played pool with him after work on Fridays. He always brought the energy, announcing his arrival with a top of his lungs “Woooo!” as he walked in. We’d play, laugh, and talk for hours about anything and everything.
Every once in a while, when the group was especially large and the place was full of laughter and conversation, James would come over, give me a huge hug, and say, “Man, look what you created.” I’m sure I replied with something sarcastic or silly, but the truth is, I didn’t create any of it. I may have invited a few people, but they kept coming back because of him. The joy he brought to everyone around him was infectious, and we all came back for that.
Those nights are some of my fondest memories, and I’ll cherish them forever. To honor him, I’m planting a tree for James because I know how much he loved nature and the outdoors. It feels right that something living and growing will stand as a reminder of his spirit and the joy he brought into the world.
Thank you, James.

Vincenzo S.

2d ago

Planted a Memorial Tree in honor of James.

Plant a tree

Geri Keele-Joe

3d ago

in honor of James.

I have so many memories to reminisce over. You have the biggest heart as a person, but you were my Big Brother and I loved you more than words. I know you’re at peace and watching over us ALL. You have been with me thru ALL of my life and its challenges. You were compassionate, kind, open minded, non judgmental and showed me so much UNCONDITIONAL LOVE. I will do my
Absolute best to get thru these challenging times. I will be kind, compassionate, patient, non judgmental, with unconditional LOVE that you’ve shown me over the past 51yrs of my life. I feel your presence thru love , music, humor, and laughter. Speaking of humor can you ease up on playing with my ears 😉🤣.

A serene illustration of a lit pastel green candle with a small white blossom and a three-leaf sprig resting at its base, set against a soft green background.

Mimi Flores

3d ago

I don’t even know what to share because there are so many great memories. Our whole team worked long and hard & we played just as hard.

Over the years there were so many practical jokes and happy hours. It was like working with children 😆😆😆

James loved to laugh and prank people as much as he loved winning his beloved UNO belt. He once had a cat he complained about owning but pampered her with his Dasani water because he swore it was the only good water besides the filtered water he would pump from the streams on hikes.

I loved to borrow tools from his “Fanny pack” aka his tool pouch that he always carried. He like to act tough but he had a loving heart and really cared about the people closest to him. He was a ride or die type of friend and amazing son/grandson. I am blessed to have known him and call him one of the best friends I have ever had.

Cindie Banta

4d ago

in honor of James.

James. Who would have thought when you walked into my office clowning around about my wardrobe almost 28 years ago that you would have become a HUGE part of my life. We saw each other through divorce, relationships and too many milestones to put down. You were always the most supportive friend and confidant. I will forever be thankful for the countless camping trips, sing alongs, dance parties and memories. We even met Kim and Jace on the same night. You changed my life, you blessed me. I will miss you beyond words. I love you JK.
Thank you🤍

Adam Paulson

16m ago

in honor of James.

Spending time just sitting and reflecting on all things --- Religion, Politics, Science, Family etc.

I could go on and on ......

James wasn’t just part of my life. He helped shape it. His memory lives in every run, every roll of the dice, every moment I whisper, “I got this,” and feel him beside me.

Rest well, James. You were legendary. And you always will be.

Tribute Wall

Tribute Wall