Born to Frances and Gerald Ireland August 16, 1939, James died peacefully surrounded by love on February 17, 2014, after a long, brave battle with COPD.

A graduate of the University of Utah and retired from industrial sales, Ireland enjoyed his Alki home for 35+ years. He loved to garden, golf, bird watch, travel, and fishing off of Elliott Bay.

James answered to Ireland, James H, Papa Jim, Sparky and Diego. “Jimmy” was reserved for his mother and sweetheart. James shared his life during this 21st Century with his “favorite girl,” Sherrie Plymale. He was a hopeless romantic, polished gentleman, and proud father. James inherited his good looks and charisma from his father and discerning taste and style from his mother (Franisms).

He is survived by his brother, Gerald Ireland Jr. (Jane), San Jose, CA; daughter, Lisa Martinez (Leo), Salt Lake City, UT, and grandchildren, Sean and Megan Martinez; son, Jeffrey Ireland (Carolyn), Kirkland, WA, and granddaughter, Katie Ireland Moran; and several cousins in the Seattle area.

He spent his last days being cared for by the skilled nursing angels at Providence MT. St. Vincent.

Heartfelt gratitude to Group Health Hospice RN, Cynthia Finnery, for endless hours of compassion providing pathways and coping during end of life lessons.

A traditional Irish Wake is planned at his Alki home for friends and loved ones March 16, 2014, 3 p.m.

Published in The West Seattle Herald Section of The Westside Weekly February 28, 2014