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James "Jim" Wilson Vanderburg
April 4th, 1956 - May 28th, 2026
April 4th, 1956 - May 28th, 2026
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." -Mathew 6:33
James Vanderburg passed away unexpectedly on May 28th, 2026, following a brief hospitalization related to a heart condition. He was 70 years old.
Though his passing has left an immeasurable void, his life was one marked by purpose, generosity, adventure, and love. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, and friend whose kindness touched countless lives.
A lifelong aviator, James dedicated himself to the skies and to serving others. During the first half of his aviation career, he worked as a missionary pilot, using his skills to support communities and people in need. Later, he fulfilled his passion for aviation as a private jet captain, earning the respect of colleagues and passengers alike through his professionalism, calm leadership, and unwavering integrity.
Above all else, James was devoted to his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, his sister, his six children, and his three grandchildren (with one more on the way), whom he loved deeply and guided faithfully. His compassion extended beyond borders when he and his wife adopted his three daughters from Ukraine, welcoming them into the family with open arms and open hearts. His children knew him as a father who was present, dependable, encouraging, and endlessly loving.
Those who knew James will remember a man of remarkable character. He possessed a genuine curiosity about the world and the people around him, always eager to learn something new or hear another person's story. Despite his many accomplishments, he remained humble, gracious, and kind. He never sought recognition for himself, preferring instead to serve others quietly and faithfully.
Whether spending time with family, flying, sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or simply offering a listening ear, he made people feel valued and cared for. His warmth, wisdom, and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
While his family has lost a loved one, we also celebrate a life extraordinarily well lived. His legacy endures in the family he cherished, the lives he touched, and the example he set through a lifetime of love, humility, courage, and service.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
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Anonymous
MEMORIAL TREE PLANTED
In memory of James "Jim" Wilson Vanderburg
2 Trees planted in Oregon
Those in our family who had the privilege of meeting Jim and the opportunity to spend time with him have all shared the same sentiment- what an exceptional and kind man he was. May God wrap you in his arms to provide peace & comfort as you navigate this difficult time together.
Lary & Sheryl Strietzel
Dear Vanderburg Family, As our neighbors, co-workers and friends, you have been especially dear to our hearts over the years. It has been a blessing to see your family growing in size and in love for one another. We are so very sorry we won't be there for Jim's memorial service; please receive our sincerest condolences and know that we are remembering you so very often, and are praying for you. May the Lord give you strength and grace as you gather together, and comfort as you share memories & stories about Jim, such an amazing man who touched many lives. Lary & Sheryl Strietzel
Jan Sloan
Jim was one of the greatest men I have ever known! He loved Missy with all his heart. May God Bless this family. I love you all! Jan
Jim McCabe
Jim was an old friend with whom I worked at Gillespie Air Field in Santee, CA. 1984/85. We were both getting experience so we could go to the mission field. I was an aircraft mechanic; he was both mechanic and pilot. Jim was always a professional, doing excellent work in whatever field he was working. We both ended up going with JAARS / Wycliffe, traveling the world. We only occasionally crossed paths after that. With Facebook, Judy and I were able to follow their adventurous lives. Jim was easy going, confident, and an enjoyment to be with. I was always hoping we could connect again face to face, but that will have to wait till heaven now.
Gordon Mellis
My wife, Cindy, and I knew Jim and Melissa as our "next-door neighbors" in Nyankunde, DRC (then known as Zaire). I was sent by MAF to be the interim Program Manager for East Zaire from 1992-93 and Jim was one of our pilots, on loan from Wycliffe/JAARS. Jim was always an encouragement to everyone around him with his cheerful, positive attitude, even during some difficult times. Jim not only faithfully served MAF but considered it a special privilege to also be able to serve those Wycliffe/SIL translators who were serving in our part Zaire. Melissa's ministry of hospitality was also greatly appreciated by many who passed through Nyankunde on their way to or from their villages. Melissa and family, we send our love. Jim will be missed by all of us who knew him, but we rejoice that he is now fully healed and in the presence of his Lord. Gordon & CIndy Mellis
Steve Otterbein
In 1974/5, Jim and I shared a dorm room during our freshman year at BIOLA. Fondly remember our talks, guitar jamming. Jim loved the Lord. It showed. We were probably the quietest room in the dorm. He told me second semester he was considering becoming a missionary pilot. I dropped him off at his home in Corvalis end of yr-1. We last spoke 2 yrs ago. I was hoping to see him this summer. We will meet again . Because of Jesus, HOPE is alive.
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