James (Jim) Francis Bussard, 45

Jim passed away from cancer April 25, 2012, in Portland, Ore. He was born Aug. 31, 1966, in Orange, Calif., and was raised primarily in Idaho.

He attended John Brown Elementary in Rathdrum and went on to graduate from Coeur d’Alene High School. He also lived in California for a dozen years, and worked as a cook at Denney’s Restaurant in Paso Robles and at the Paso Robles Inn. He moved to Oregon in 2000, and for six years was a sous chef at Jake’s Famous Crawfish in Portland, and was a chef at Paddy’s Bar & Grill for two years.

He enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing, swimming, biking and skateboarding. He also enjoyed collecting driftwood and fashioning each unique piece into fascinating shapes. He loved animals, especially his 17-year-old cat, Brewster. Jim was very close to his family members and friends, and will be dearly missed.

Jim is survived by his father and stepmother, Sherman and Sandra Bussard of Vancouver, Wash.; and by his mother and stepfather, Gail and Jerry Vanderhoof of Rathdrum. He is also survived by his brothers, John Bussard of Keizer, Ore., and Roy Bussard of Vancouver. His extended family also includes his stepbrothers, Chris Vanderhoof of Rathdrum, Bob Robatzek of Seattle, Tony Robatzek of Portland; and his stepsister, Merrilee Johnstone. He also leaves behind his loving companion, Liz Baird.

Arrangements were handled by Crown Memorial Centers in Portland.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. The family wishes to thank all those who have shared their condolences and best wishes.