Jim was born in Yonkers, New York, to Donald and Herta Blackett. Growing up in a military family, Jim frequently moved during his early years, including three years in Germany, where his family reconnected with Jim’s mother’s German family. By the time they moved back to the states, Jim was entering first grade, not knowing how to speak English. He learned fast.
The family settled in Washington State, where Jim and his siblings attended schools in the Tacoma/Lakewood area. In the early 1970’s Jim joined the US Navy, serving for a couple years, before settling back home in Washington, where he worked several jobs, including the Tacoma Beltline Railroad. In January 1978 he met his soon be to wife of 42 years, Christine Franich. They were married in June of that year, and a year later, moved to Eatonville. It was here that they raised their children and spent their life together. Shortly after moving to Eatonville, Jim found a career working for the Wilcox Family Farms, first working with the field and carpenter crews, then working in the dairy where he was responsible for feeding the cows. Eventually, he landed a job at which he truly excelled - behind the wheel of the “big rigs”. “Jim Bob” drove semi-trucks for 30 years, delivering Wilcox products across Washington State, before retiring in June of 2020.
Jim enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, but above all, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved listening to music and dancing with anyone who would give him the honor. Jimmy also loved riding his motorcycle and being a member of ABATE’s Elk Country Chapter, with whom he greatly enjoyed the comradery of the brotherhood and the freedom of the road that came with it. Jim spent countless hours doing service work of all kinds, often in response to a wifely suggestion - everything from watering the local town flower baskets, to helping set up & clean up large community events. He was the type of man who was there for friends and family at the drop of a hat and loved them
all deeply.
Jimmy is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Christine, son Arron Olson, daughter Emily (Dennis) McFadden, son Ryan (Kristy) Blackett, brother Don (Shari) Blackett, brother Roy (Teri Phelps) Blackett, brother Rick (Debbie) Blackett, brother Steve (Tina) Blackett, sister Lisa (Gwil) Wiley, 11 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
A peaceful celebration of life protest will be held on September 5th at 2pm at the Blackett Two Star Farm located at 15225 Alder Mashell Connection Rd E, Eatonville, WA 98328. This will be a potluck event, and we invite everyone to bring their favorite dish and your best back yard dancing shoes. The service will start at 2pm, followed by a potluck BBQ reception until 6pm.
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