James D. “Jim” Carmichael, 78, passed away on May 2, 2016 in Yakima, WA. He was born one of twelve children on October 27, 1937 in Stillwater, Oklahoma to William E. and Hazel A. (Banning) Carmichael.

Jim as a young man came to the Yakima Valley with his family, graduating from Yakima High School with the class of 1956. He met the love of his life Katherine R. “Kathy” LaFortune at the time clock of Miller’s Department Store. Jim and Kathy were married on April 18, 1959 and recently celebrated 57 years together. Jim would continue on in sales and management. He always enjoyed helping customers find the perfect shoe. He eventually retired from the Bon Marche after 42 years.

In his early years his passion was creating vehicles for race and show. As he matured he moved on to wood crafting, but still tinkered in mechanics and general household repairs; this earned him the nickname of the “repairman of 35th Ave.”

Jim was a loving husband, great father, grandfather, great grandfather and tremendous friend and neighbor.

He is survived by his wife Kathy; sons Bill (Debbie) Carmichael, Rich (Michele) Carmichael, John (Laura) Carmichael, and Don Carmichael; sisters Carol Wright and Vergie Reidt; brother Ken Carmichael; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by three brothers and five sisters.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 am, Monday, May 16, 2016 at Keith & Keith Funeral Home. A private inurnment will be held at West Hills Memorial Park.

Yakima Herald Republic, Yakima, WA May 10-11, 2016.

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1940 Census:

William Carmichael 50
Hazel Carmichael 43
Jane Carmichael 16
Donald Carmichael 14
Virgil Carmichael 12
Anna Carmichael 10
Johnie Carmichael 6
Caral Carmichael 4
James Carmichael 2