Jimmy J. Johnsen's Obituary
Jimmy Joseph Johnsen
Jimmy Joseph Johnsen passed away peacefully on Aug. 7, 2011 in Puyallup, Washington. -Å"J. J.,- as he was known to his many friends, was born in Tacoma, Washington on July 1, 1915.
A Bachelor of Science graduate from the University of Washington, Jim spent his entire business career in the insurance industry. He used his engineering degree to good use specializing in construction services when he began work at Safeco Insurance in Seattle. He then moved into the independent agency business in Tacoma and Puyallup, Washington, where he served his many clients with knowledge and dedication.
Jim was proud of his service in the Coast Guard, where he served in Alaska during World War II. Growing up in the depression years, Jim did not have the resources to attend college, but the G.I. Bill afforded him that opportunity.
There were two great passions in Jim's life: family and golf. Family activities were the cornerstone of virtually all he did, and he had a great interest in the lives and well being of all family members. He is survived by son Corey Johnsen and daughter Julie Hensley; grandchildren Ruth Hensley, C.J. Johnsen, Sandra Hensley, Peter Hensley and Sally Johnsen; great grandchild Logan Johnsen and numerous nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by wives Ruth Johnsen, Dorothy Johnsen and Dottie Johnsen. He is also survived by his step-children Patricia Norris, Barbara Carey, Robert Meneghini, Susan Leland and Joan Smith.
Golf played a major role in Jim's life since he began as a caddy in the 1920's. As an avid golfer, Jim was the President of the Meadow Park Golf Course Men's Club. Upon retirement, he was able to enjoy golf yearround, traveling to Kauai and the Palm Springs area in the winter. To illustrate his golf talent, Jim recorded 10 hole-in-ones during his career.
Throughout his life, Jim was best known for his friendly smile, greeting and kind words to everyone he met. From the neighborhood to the workplace to the golf course, he will be remembered as a man who genuinely cared about the people he met.
No formal services are planned. The family will host a celebration of life later in August. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Evans Scholarship Foundation at wgaesf.com. Those donations will be earmarked for college financial assistance at the University of Washington, for young men and women with a background in golf and caddying.
Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home.
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