James Edward Pearse, 81, of Clinton, passed away April 25 in the presence of his loving family, following a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Ilion, New York, Jim conducted his life with dignity, humility, and a quiet, steady strength admired by all who knew him. An Eagle Scout at 14 and a U.S. Marine who served in World War II (Pacific Theater) at 19, Jim married Margaret (Peggy) Williams of Utica, N.Y., in 1947.

Mr. Pearse worked in sales, management, and real estate. In addition, he enjoyed few things more than reroofing or painting a house, refinishing a good piece of furniture, and hosting family get-togethers at their home overlooking Useless Bay. Prior to his illness, Jim served as a volunteer driver for Clinton Senior Services and contributed his home repair skills for Hearts & Hammers, a charitable organization.

He will be deeply missed by his entire family: his loving wife, Peggy; son Steve of Langley and his wife, Sandy; daughters Sue Zuck of Bellingham and husband, George, and and Heather Scott of Bothell and husband Greg; grandchildren Jennifer Martinson, Megan Harp, and Mitchell, Nicolette, and Olivia Saban; and great-grandchildren Maxson and Zoe Martinson, and Alexander Harp. In addition, Mr. Pearse was a much-loved patriarch to extended family members in New York and Florida.

He was preceded in death by his beloved sisters, Corajane Reilly and Vaughn Villiere, both of New York state.

Graveside funeral services with full military honors will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 29 at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent. Viewing hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday at Burley Funeral Chapel in Oak Harbor.