As received from the Memorial Chapel Funeral and Cremation Service. If you have questions about, or potential corrections to the content, please contact the funeral home directly.
James Michael Tapio, age 67, passed from life to eternity on October 26, 2025, at his home in Vancouver, Washington.
James, mostly known as Jim, was born on January 21, 1958, in Hancock, Michigan, to the late Albert and Elfie Tapio. He grew up in Chassell, where he attended school, graduating from Chassell High School in 1976. He worked at the Houghton National Bank prior to moving to Washington.
Jim began his real estate career in 1979; then in 1992, he started his own successful corporation, James & Company Realty. A business colleague recently described Jim as being well-respected and well-known as a key businessman in the field of real estate. His professional, pleasant manner, and meticulous attention to detail brought him numerous loyal, repeat, and referral customers.
An avid health and fitness buff in earlier years, Jim loved to ski and maneuvered the slopes with rhythm and skill. His keen interest in travel took him to Alaska, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand. He spent many holidays enjoying the sandy beaches of Hawaii.
Jim was blessed with talent and a passion for playing both piano and organ, often playing and singing the hymns and songs of Zion, which were so dear to him. His faith in Jesus Christ gave him strength and comfort from early childhood until Jesus called him home.
Jim is survived by six siblings: Sister Christine (with husband Bruce Sarkela) of Chassell, MI & Greer, SC; brother John Tapio of Brush Prairie, WA; sister Carol (with husband Tim Karlsen) of Brush Prairie, WA; sister Caren (with husband David Somero) of Houghton, MI; brother Jay Tapio (with wife Marcella) of Brush Prairie, WA; and brother Peter Tapio (with wife Sara) of Brush Prairie, WA. His many nieces and nephews adored their Uncle Jim! He also leaves behind many cousins and friends.
Layne’s Funeral Service of Battle Ground, WA, and Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service – Hancock Chapel have assisted the family with the arrangements. Jim’s final earthly resting place will be next to his parents in the Chassell Cemetery.
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