James Leo Rousey

James (Jim) Leo Rousey of Corvallis, Oregon, passed away on June 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was 87 years old. Jim was born on March 20, 1939, in Davenport, Iowa, to William (Bill) Albert Rousey and Mae Leone (Beintema) Rousey. He spent his early childhood in Davenport before moving with his parents and sister, Jean, to Cairo, Egypt, where his father worked as a pilot for TWA and Emperor Haile Selassie. After returning to the United States, the family settled in Santa Ana, California. There, Jim joined the Army National Guard and graduated from Santa Ana High School in 1957. Jim attended Oregon State College, where he studied Engineering and met the love of his life, Darlene Claussen. They were married in a beautiful sunrise ceremony in July 1959 and shared 67 wonderful years together. Jim began his career with the U.S. Forest Service, serving in Grants Pass, Medford, Oakridge, and Chemult while he and Darlene welcomed their three children. In 1970, the family returned to Corvallis, where they made their permanent home. During his years with the Forest Service, Jim contributed to the construction of the road to Mary’s Peak and helped develop several public park trails along the Oregon Coast which are still enjoyed by visitors today. Dedicated to service both professionally and personally, Jim was an active member of the Civil Air Patrol for many years, achieving the rank of Major. He taught first aid classes, earned his pilot’s license, and enjoyed sharing his knowledge and skills with others. After retiring from the U.S. Forest Service, Jim briefly owned and operated a local cab company before pursuing a new career in computer programming. He moved to San Diego to earn a degree from Coleman College, then returned to Corvallis, where he worked for several technology companies before retiring. Jim had a lifelong passion for learning and friendly competition. He was an accomplished bridge and chess player, teaching both games to others, was an enthusiastic member of a local gaming club and also enjoyed his Sunday night bowling league. He especially enjoyed the friendships he built through these shared interests. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Jean, and his only nephew. He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Darlene (née Claussen); his children, Patricia Mason (John), David Rousey, and Sharon Murphy (Donn); six grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and four nieces. Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His kindness, intelligence, quiet sense of humor, and dedication to his family and community will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 11, 2026, in Albany, Oregon.

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James Leo Rousey

March 20, 1939 - June 10, 2026