James Causey

James Edward Causey (Jim) passed into the loving arms of God on March 21, 2025 at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, WA. Jim was born on September 13, 1937 in Balboa, Panama to Bessie Earline (Nance) and Charles Benjamin Causey. He was raised in San Angelo, TX. 

After serving in the Air Force he dedicated his lifelong career to public service, working for the Department of Defense and the Federal Aviation Administration as an Electronic Technician. Jim's career took him to North Dakota where he met and married the love of his life, Jean Lorna (Hillestad) on September 16, 1967. They built a life centered around family, learning, and adventure. Together they raised two children, Jennifer Lynn Causey of Spokane, WA and Jeffrey Loren Causey of Vancouver, WA. One of Jim's greatest joys was being a grandfather to Jonah James, with whom he spent countless hours playing, exploring nature, and sharing his love of archaeology. Jim was a devoted husband and father who always put his family first. 

Jim and Jean lived in North Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, and Washington, making their forever home in Spokane for the last 32 years. Jim retired from the Federal Aviation Administration at Mica Peak. While enjoying many of his hobbies during retirement, Jim became a respected Range Officer at the Spokane Rifle Club. He taught countless individuals about firearm safety and marksmanship while making many friends. Known for his kindness, wisdom, and generosity, he was loved by his community. 

A true outdoorsman and lifelong learner, Jim was an avid bushcraft enthusiast, always eager to discover new ways to live harmoniously with nature. His passion for the outdoors led him to hand-build a log cabin in the Montana mountains where he instilled in his children a deep appreciation for wildlife and nature. Jim's love for animals was legendary. He had a special way with wildlife and even tamed wild squirrels who would come to his call and perch on his shoulder for a treat from his pocket. Some of Jim's other interests and hobbies included archery, big game hunting, fishing, archaeology, Ham/radio communication, knife-making, leather work, scrimshaw, bullet reloading, and coin collecting. Jim loved all sports, especially Gonzaga basketball and WSU football. He enjoyed traveling with his family and exploring new places while making life-long memories together. 

Jim loved the Lord and walked in his faith in his own kind and gentle manner. His legacy of love, curiosity, and adventure will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know him. A memorial service will be held on April 12, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Riplinger Funeral Home in Spokane, Washington. A Celebration of Life will take place on June 21, 2025 at Concordia Lutheran Church in Crosby, North Dakota.