James "Jim" G. Smith

James G. Smith of Union, died Monday, January 8, 2024 in La Grande at the age of 73.

Celebration of life will be held on May 25th from 1 until 3 p.m. at the Catherine Creek Community Center in Union. 

James Gregory, known as Jim, was born on July 27, 1950 in La Grande, the youngest of the four children born to Gordon Thomas and Noreen May (Halsey) Smith. He was raised and educated in Union graduating with the Union High School class of 1968. On May 28, 1971, Jim married Teresa (Chrusoskie) in La Grande. They made their home in Union.

Jim worked as a logger and then for Union County Grain Growers Flourmill in Union. Later he obtained his license for chemical application and distribution at their plant in Island City. He spent some time loading fire retardant on aircraft at the airport before working for Miller's Cabinet and Hardware as their purchasing agent before working for Bronson Lumber Company in Island City. He also worked for the City of La Grande Parks Department in recent years.

Jim enjoyed woodworking, building toys, picture frames etc. He enjoyed traveling to places like South Carolina and Alaska. Jim loved to hunt and fish especially with his father-in-law, Gerald Chrusoskie until his passing in 2006. Jim's last hunting trip was with his grandson, November 2015. In his final years he enjoyed visiting his former work clients, riding in the mountains and visiting with his school friends.

Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Teresa of Union, daughter Amanda (Smith), and son-in-law, Brian Mercer of Johns Island, South Carolina, grandson Darian James Mercer, sister Sharon Vermillion, brother-in-law Larry "Butch" Vermillion, of Island City, brother-in-law, Kenneth Chrusoskie La Grande, as well as numerous nephews and nieces. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Duane and John T. Smith, aunts, uncles, cousins and in-laws. 

Contributions in memory of James G. "Jim" Smith may be made to the Oregon Health & Science University Brain Institute, phone: 800-462-6608 website: OHSU Foundation ' Donate