Obituary of James Max Waldrip

On Monday, December 16, 2013 surrounded by his family and friends Jim "Jimi slick" "James Blonde" Waldrip left this life on a journey to the great raceway in the sky. He was born on August 2, 1957 to Norma (Davidson) Hibler and Nathaniel Waldrip in Shelton Washington. He graduated from Shelton High School in 1975 and became a talented master carpenter. Jim worked and ran crews for custom builders such as Roger Denny and Waite Construction. He also ran his own businesses; Oakland Bay Construction and Homes Unlimited. He built many custom homes and businesses in Mason and Thurston County. Jim was the “All American Guy”. He loved baseball, Chevrolet, golf, family, friends and life. He spent many seasons playing city league baseball and coached his daughter Jennifer's team. Drag Racing was truly a passion of Jim's. He was a frequent competitor at the Bremerton Raceway in his '67 Chevelle where he took "King of the Hill”. Jim had the opportunity to race on a NASCAR track with his buddies. He said, “Now that is pure adrenaline!” Jim was extremely proud of his daughter Jennifer, grandson Trenton and his classic '67 Chevelle. He enjoyed growing roses, feeding the birds, golfing, and mowing the lawn on his riding lawn mower. Watching football and NASCAR were also favorites, as well as his innovative cooking skills. His cats Jerry and Jaz brought him laughter, comfort and companionship. He is survived by his daughter Jennifer (Tom) Salazar, grandson Trenton, sister Jeanette (Steve) Geron, brother Joe (Yolanda) Waldrip, many cousins and his beloved cats Jerry & Jaz. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather Joe Hibler and grandparents. Please join us for a potluck as we gather together to celebrate the life of a father, brother and loving friend at The Bend On Hood Canal, 253 E Great Bend Drive, Union, WA on Sunday, January 12, 2014 at 2PM. For additional questions or directions please call 360-490-5545.