James Walter Burgess

James Walter Burgess, 97, of Stevensville passed away from natural causes on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at the Living Centre.

James was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on August 22, 1928, to parents George E. and Genevieve C. (Kerrigan) Burgess, the sixth of nine children in the family. He continued to live in Boston throughout his childhood, eventually graduating from South Boston High School in 1946. James promptly joined the military, doing service in the Navy from 1946-1947 aboard the USS Shea (DM-30) and Army where he was a radioman in the 351st Infantry Regiment in Germany from 1946-1952.

After completing his military service, James moved to California in 1952. He married Barbara Jean Burgess in 1955, and together they welcomed two children, Michael and Kathleen. During this time, he worked as both a pipe fitter and with sheet metal. James and Barbara made the move to Hamilton in 2012 to be closer to family in the area.

In the early days of living in California, James enjoyed wrestling at Venice Beach. Throughout his life, he was known to be a voracious reader.

James was preceded in death by his wife Barbara, who passed away in 2016, as well as all 8 of his siblings.

He is survived by his children, Michael J. Burgess and Kathleen M. (Dan) Houser all of Hamilton; grandchildren, Jason Burgess of Hamilton, Chad (Julie) Houser of Corvallis, Christopher Burgess of California, James (Sheree) Houser of Corvallis, and Sarah Houser of Corvallis; and 5 great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the Living Centre in Stevensville. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.