James "Jim" William Persinger

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of James "Jim" William Persinger, 74, a beloved husband, dad, grandpa, great grandpa, uncle, and friend, who left us on September 27, 2024, in Pendleton, Oregon.

Born in Muncie, Indiana, to Wendell and Kathleen Persinger, Jim graduated from Pendleton High School in 1969, where he proudly played as a catcher on the baseball team. He briefly attended Blue Mountain Community College before moving to Modesto, California. There, while studying, he worked for KFC, where he met the love of his life, Joan Gutke. The couple married on May 12, 1972, in Walla Walla, Washington.

Jim was an active member of his community, serving as President of the Pendleton Little League and as a member of the Elks and Masonic Lodge. He loved to sing and dance, bringing joy to those around him. An avid sports enthusiast, he played for the Elks Lodge Men's Softball League and enjoyed following his favorite teams.

In his professional life, Jim worked as a Parts and Service Manager for Fleetwood, Collins, and Northwood, retiring in 2005. He was also a passionate fisherman, relishing the time spent outdoors. Jim cherished trips in his motorhome, he and his wife Joan  followed their sons to all of their sporting events never missing a beat, offering up rides to anyone in need. Later Jim would pack the motorhome with his sons, and friends and head down to a Seattle Seahawks game, then later grandsons were invited on trips to  Mariners games and the College World Series  creating lasting memories. 

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Joan, and their three sons: Rod (Char) Persinger of Pendleton, Jeff (Kathy) Persinger of Pendleton, and Jason (Stacy) Persinger of Meridian, ID. He took immense pride in his grandchildren— Wesley (Lexy), Parker, Jack, Austin, and Caden, David (Mae), Crystal and great-grandchildren—Anaya, Antonio, Adrian, Ali, Lydia, Kayla, and Evie.

A celebration of life will be held on October 19th, 2024 at Hodgen Distributing at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Pendleton City Club.

Jim's kindness, sense of humor, unwavering support and unconditional love for his family, and all who knew him will be deeply missed. Rest in peace, Jim. Your spirit will live on in our hearts forever.