James K. Roush

James Keith “Jim” Roush, 86, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, at Yakima Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Jim was born on August 14, 1939, in Villard, Minnesota, to Floyd Lavern Roush and Edith Clara O’Hair. He was raised in Washington, where he built a life rooted in hard work and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Washington State University—GO COUGS!

Jim devoted his life to horticulture and the care of the land. Over the years, he worked for the U.S. Forest Service, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Department of Ecology. In his younger years, he served as a fire tower watcher during the summers and later fought forest fires. Eventually, he followed his independent spirit and owned his own tree nursery. He spent many years growing and selling plants and trees at local farmers’ markets, where he became a familiar and trusted presence. Sharing his knowledge and love of plants was one of his greatest joys.

He was known for his kind and caring nature, strong work ethic, and genuine love for people. Jim had a lifelong passion for the outdoors—especially trees—and found great joy in nature and photography. On weekends, he maintained Christmas tree farms, a reflection of both his dedication and the simple life he loved. He treated others with quiet respect and warmth, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his spouse, Doris Svendsen; her three sons, Andy (Joanne), Chris (Denise), and Peter (Connie), along with their children and grandchildren; her sisters and brother-in-law, Geneva, Elaine and Derek, and Beatrice; and his two daughters, Karie Boesiger (Todd) and Amy Potts. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Bryttanie Nunez (Jesus) and their children, Benjamin and Katherine; Abigail Greenlee (Lucas); Luke Boesiger; and Jacob Potts.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Edith Roush, and his siblings and their spouses, Dwight & Charlotte Roush, Phyllis & Frank Emmick, and Wayne & Ellie Roush.

A Celebration of Life will be held this summer in Yakima.

Jim was loved by many—family, friends, and customers alike—and he will be forever missed.

We welcome you to share memories, photos, and condolences on the guestbook, located below.

www.emmickfunerals.com/obituaries/james-roush

Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of Seattle, Washington