James Miltimore

James Miltimore passed away peacefully in his home on June 28, 2022. On March 7, Jim went on a hike with his wife, Yoshiko (a.k.a. Carol), in his beloved Mount Rainier National Park for the last time before he was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer and placed in hospice care. Jim was born in Salem, Oregon and lived his entire life in the Pacific Northwest states of Oregon and Washington. Jim graduated from Centralia High School and Western Washington State University (formerly known as Western Washington State College). He worked as a medical technician and a geologist before he joined Weyerhaeuser Company as an Analytical Chemist and worked there for 29 years. He was an uncommon scientist who could read, analyze, and explain minute details of laws and regulations. He enjoyed mentoring people new to their jobs. He was a long-time member of American Chemical Society, and the Geological Society of America. He loved and enjoyed nature from early age. he joined the Mazama of Portland in late 1960’s and climbed all major peaks of the Pacific Northwest, as well as highpoints of all the lower 48 states and Hawaii; in his later years he enjoyed hiking in other western states with his wife and hiking partner. After his retirement from Weyerhaeuser Company, he signed up to be a Volunteer in Park (VIP) for Mount Rainier National Park. He volunteered there in many roles, utilizing his passion for nature, outdoor experience and occasionally his scientific expertise: backcountry patrol, wilderness cleanup, assistance to curatorial facility, library, and archeology, to name some. While on trail, he never missed an opportunity to assist park visitors and share with them his love of nature and the park and importance of good stewardship of public lands. He also enjoyed volunteering with Washington Trails Association at their trail work parties; initially only the work parties inside Mount Rainier National Park but later extending to the work parties located in other public lands. He joined some work parties organized by Mount Rainier National Park Associates. Jim is survived and deeply missed by his loving wife of 30 years; his two beloved children, Ti and Guy, and their family; his three siblings, Diane, Steve and Don, and their family; and his stepdaughter, Michelle. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved Aunt Juanita. Many thanks go to all the neighbors and friends who generously offered support, encouragement, and comfort during this short but challenging time. Thanks also go to the nurses and staff of Providence Hospice of Seattle for their support and guidance during this journey. Honor Jim’s memory by visiting and recreating responsibly in Mount Rainier National Park or one of other public lands. Remembrance may be made to Washington’s National Park Fund or Washington Trails Association.