James Whitney

James Kimball Whitney, age 80, passed away on the 5th of May, 2026, in his home. He was born on March 24, 1946, in Astoria, Oregon to Barbara and Rolla Whitney. He married his high school sweetheart, Karen Jukich on October 22, 1966 at Skyline Lutheran in Lemon Grove, California. He held many jobs in the Electronics field but was proudest of his contributions in creating a DNA Amplification device and traveling the world to see it installed in major research facilities. An inveterate traveler, James was adept at putting together wonderful itineraries and finding the most charming (or exotic) places to stay. He covered 36 states and 54 countries and was happy to embark on a roadtrip to anywhere. James was a carpenter, electrician, plumber, gardener, mechanic, cook, photographer and entrepreneur, investing his time and imagination in creating a very special hand-made home with Karen. He loved to play games with friends and grandchildren and was ready to dress up in costume for Halloween or Renaissance Faires or whatever was called for. He will be remembered as a generous caregiver, scrupulously honest, positive minded, totally unpretentious and always willing to help. He will undoubtedly also be remembered for Hawaiian shirts, flip flops and Cuba Libras. He is survived by his wife Karen, daughter Wendy, grandson Enzo, granddaughter Tessa and his older brother Brian. We would love to have you join us, raise a glass to James and share a story or two.