Obituary for James H. Conover

James H. Conover, age 84, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 18, 2025. A man of fierce wit, stubborn charm, and boundless energy, Jim lived life like he played golf: with confidence, a touch of mischief, and an occasional muttered four-letter word.

Born in Michigan in 1941 to Gerald and Rita Conover, Jim was one of five siblings in a home that valued hard work and deep faith. His parents instilled in him not only a devout Catholic upbringing but also a lifelong love of golf—a game that would shape his character, his college career, and his weekends for the next eight decades.

Jim earned a golf scholarship to the University of Portland. He planted roots in Oregon, where he would go on to spend most of his life, raising a family, building a career, and perfecting his backswing.

Professionally, Jim rose to become Vice President of Sales at ADP, leading with a sharp mind, an iron will, and the same competitive spirit he brought to the golf course. Personally, he was the proud father of three children and doting grandfather to five, roles he took seriously—though he never passed up the opportunity to sneak them a cookie or teach them the finer points of a proper golf grip.

Jim was married to Judy, for 56 years—a partnership filled with laughter, loyalty, and lively debates.. Together, they built a home that welcomed both friends and family with open arms and a stocked dessert drawer.

Fiercely funny, a little wild, and never one to shy away from a spirited conversation, Jim had a way of lighting up a room—and occasionally setting off fire alarms in the kitchen. He loved sweets almost as much as sports, and he cherished his family above all else. His presence was bold, his humor biting, and his love unwavering.

Jim is survived by his wife Judy, their three children Kristin Hoffman, Dan Conover and Tracey Donohue, five grandchildren Benito and Sofia Fernandez, Tate and Quinn Hoffman and Olivia Conover, as well as his son-in-laws Jeff Hoffman and John Donohue and three of his siblings, Teri Conover, Glenn Conover and Diane Silva—each of whom carries with them a bit of his spark, his stubbornness, and his stories (some of which might even be true).

In honor of Jim, the family suggests playing a round of golf, eating something sweet, and telling someone you love them—ideally all in the same afternoon.

A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows in Portland, Oregon, on 10/14 at 11 a.m. followed by a celebration of life filled with laughter, memories, and maybe a few questionable golf anecdotes.

He played the long game—and played it well.

May he rest in peace, and may every green be smooth in heaven.

⛳️

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