James "Jim" Richard McMullen

James Richard McMullen of Happy Valley, Oregon died peacefully at home on December 9th, 2024 at the age of 74. He was born in Klamath Falls, Oregon to Donald Richard McMullen and Dorothy (Gardner) McMullen.

Jim grew up in Salem, Oregon, then joined the United States Army following graduation from South Salem High School. He served in the Vietnam War and received an Honorable Discharge in 1975. Following his service to his country, Jim attended Oregon State University where he received a B.S. Degree in Business and Food Science.

Jim began his career at Del Monte in Salem, Oregon where he met and later married his wife of 41 years, Mary Taaffe McMullen. Throughout his professional career, he worked at several food manufacturing companies, including Tillamook Cheese and Kettle Foods.

Jim is survived by his lifetime partner, Mary Taaffe McMullen, his children, Jordan (Gary) Blaser of Happy Valley, Oregon, Brian (Abby) McMullen of Roseburg, Oregon, and four grandchildren, who were his pride and joy. He also leaves behind three siblings, Lon McMullen of Salem, Oregon, Jon Pearson of Happy Valley, Oregon and Jill Pearson of Portland, Oregon.

The family plans a private interment.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his honor to Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon, or the OHSU Parkinson Center.