James "Jim" Culpepper, 76, of Milwaukie, OR passed away peacefully on April 26, 2024, surrounded by his loving sisters.

Jim was born in Oregon City in 1947, and grew up mostly in Oregon. He was in the United States Marine Corp (SEMPER FI!), and served as a cook in the Vietnam war, and moved on to work as a Utility Worker with City of Portland and retired after over 30 years.  Jim met his wife Carol at a Knights of Columbus skating party at Oaks Park in early 1971, and they we married soon after for over 47 years! Jim and Carol loved traveling, camping, visiting National Parks and Disneyland, and enjoyed sharing time with family and friends.

Known as Big Jim, Jimbo, Jimmy Carl, and Big Brother Jim, he was the kindest of souls, "Hard as nails, and soft as a Teddy Bear" which underscored his love of and massive bears and Teddy Bear collection. He was the sweetest man, who loved and spoiled and took care of his family. Jim was an avid reader, a history buff, and a lover of Old Westerns and Baseball! (he was also known occasionally to be a bit vocal about sports and missed plays.)

Jim will be dearly missed and always remembered.

Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife Carol Jean Culpepper, as well as his brother Robert Culpepper, and parents Eleanor and Carlton Culpepper. He is survived by siblings David Culpepper, Wanda Culpeper, Martha Rose, and nieces Danielle and Larissa and grand nephlings Emma and Riley. Also survived by Lee Zumwalt, Ean Albin, Ben Zumwalt, Neal Zumwalt, Peter Zumwalt and Noah Ward...

Jim will be interred at Willamette National Cemetery in May, and the family plans to hold a celebration of life with a Teddy Bear picnic at a later date this summer. 

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