Martin Phillip James

Martin Phillip James of White Salmon, Washington, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on March 9, 2026. He was the devoted husband of Barbara Jean West James for 56 years. Born on February 25, 1949, in Vancouver, Washington, to George James Sr. and Phyllis Bloom James, Marty was the youngest of three brothers.

A gifted athlete from an early age, Marty broke basketball records at Covington Middle School and became a local legend at Evergreen High School, graduating in 1967. His talent earned him a full scholarship to the University of Oregon, though injury cut his freshman season short. He returned home to attend Clark College, where he continued to excel on the court and met the love of his life, Barbara West. They married on September 6, 1969, and built a life together rooted in faith, family, and unwavering commitment.

Marty served in the United States Army from 1970 to 1973 with the 74th Artillery Detachment in Germany, where Barbara joined him. He played basketball for the base team and cherished the friendships and European travels they shared during those years. Upon returning home, he realized his dream of becoming a firefighter. Over a distinguished 32-year career, he served as a firefighter with Vancouver Fire District #5, rose to Assistant Fire Chief, became Deputy Fire Chief for the City of Vancouver, and was elected Fire Commissioner for Fire District #3. He taught at the Washington State Fire Academy and, after retiring in 2000, helped establish the NW Regional Training Center, a source of great pride that continues to shape first responders’ careers. Marty was also a talented carpenter and remodeler who took immense satisfaction in creating and improving homes for his family.

He is survived by his wife Barbara; his daughter Rachel Beth James King and her husband Aaron Campbell King of Battle Ground, Washington, and their children Annaliese Maybelle Danner of Boise, Idaho, Tristan Andrew Danner, Quinn James Danner, and Priya Bea King; his son Michael Andrew James of Portland, Oregon; his brother George “Jim” James Jr. and wife Naomi of Olympia, Washington, and their children Chris, Eric and Kira, and Nic and Elena; and his brother Kenneth James and wife Rhondda of Seattle, Washington, and their children Brooke and George Gosztola, Meagan James, and Chelsea and Rob Hollister. Marty found his greatest joy in his role as “Papa” to his grandchildren, sharing his playful humor and teaching them the values of hard work and unconditional love. His legacy endures through the family he cherished, the faith he lived by, and the good fight he fought so well.