James F. De Pree Jr., a veteran of the Vietnam Era and longtime resident of Burlington, passed away on April 5, 2024, surrounded by family. Jim, as he was known to many in the area, was born on February 9, 1944, to Dr. James and Amanda Lou (Wagner) De Pree in Chicago, Illinois. Soon after Jim's birth, his family relocated to the Seattle area where Jim attended Ballard High School before being drafted in the U.S. Army from December 9, 1965, to September 16, 1967. During his honorable service, Jim was recognized for numerous awards including a Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal (1st Award), National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (with 1 bronze service star), Combat Infantryman Badge (1st Award), Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Expert Badge with Machine Gun and Rifle.

After the war, Jim returned home to complete his education and graduated from Central Washington University in June of 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology (with a focus on forestry). Just within the last year prior to his passing, he could still (off the top of his head), tell you the scientific name of just about any PNW tree. Jim always loved the outdoors and all the recreational opportunities it presented such as fishing, hunting and camping which were (and still would be) some of his favorite pastimes in his earlier days.

In 1981, Jim and Roxy purchased the Edison Tavern (now the Old Edison Inn) which had been a lifelong goal of theirs. They eventually sold in 1993 so they could focus on raising their twin children. Later, Jim went on to purchase The Bellow's Tavern (now The Office) in Burlington which he owned for several years before finally retiring in 2009. In his spare time following his retirement, you could find Jim at the Burlington Eagles singing karaoke in the company of many good friends he considered family. He loved music and had such a talented voice that everyone enjoyed listening to. He will be missed by so many.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Phil De Pree and two sisters, Nicky Welsh and Sue Hulbert. He is survived by Roxy DePree-Jewett of Burlington, WA; their twin children Jay DePree of Burlington, WA, and Jamie DePree (Cody Bridgman) of Kettle Falls, WA, and grandson Jack James Bridgman. Plus, many nieces and nephews.

At Jim's request, no services are currently planned. Cremation has taken place, and a spreading of his ashes will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jim's name can be made to Hospice of the Northwest. Otherwise, have a toast in Jim's honor and/or a karaoke song in remembrance of him.

Please visit www.hawthornefh.com to share your thoughts and memories and sign the online guest register.

"Happy trails to you, until we meet again."

-Roy Rogers