H. James Donnelly

H. James "Jim" Donnelly passed away unexpectedly on March 18, 2011 at his home in Roseburg. He was 77 years old. Jim was born in Great Falls, Montana on November 21, 1933. Upon his graduation from high school the family moved to Drain, Oregon. Shortly after, he enlisted in the navy and served as Captain's Yeoman. After fulfilling his military commitment he returned to the northwest and enrolled at University of Oregon. It was here he met his future wife Greta, who was vacationing from Colorado. They married the following year and settled in Roseburg. Jim worked as a Deputy Sherriff in Roseburg and Suiter's Building Supply before finding his true calling as an agent for State Farm Insurance. In 1965 he opened his first office on Garden Valley Boulevard with his wife Greta. Starting with no clients, he built his business over three decades to include hundreds of loyal customers. He took great pride in his work and was recognized by the company and his clients for his honesty and professionalism. After retiring in 1997 Jim had time to spend doing the things he enjoyed. He was an avid reader with a keen interest in history and the daily paper. The day wasn't complete until he solved the daily jumble! He loved taking the family including the dogs, to the Oregon coast and staying in his favorite room at the Ester Lee Motel. Jim rarely missed a televised baseball or football game-especially if the Mariners or Seahawks were playing. Jim is survived by his wife of 54 years, Greta Donnelly, sons Scott and Steve (Katharine) Donnelly, brother Bill (Jackie), and nephews Ken, Kurt and Rick. Throughout much of his adult life he endured a rare and painful type of arthritis and diabetes. Despite poor health he didn't complain but instead kept a positive attitude and sunny disposition. He will lovingly be remembered for his kind heart, bright eyes, gift of gab, and wonderful sense of humor.