Jack Robert Niemi

Jack Niemi was born May 16, 1936, in Seaside to Jack and Katherine Niemi. He passed away on Nov. 15, at the age of 87.

Jack married Patricia Niemi on Nov. 8, 1954. They were married for 66 years prior to her passing on Jan. 20, 2020.

When Dad married Mom, her maiden name was Niemi. Although the two were not related, it made for a great story, and Mom was pleased that she never had to change her last name. However, the two did pronounce Niemi in different ways!

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and older sibling, Roberta Woodward, who passed away in 2021.

He is survived by his children, Kim Fuller (husband, Randy), Robin Golubickas (husband, Dan) and Lisa McClean (husband, David); grandchildren, Randi, Tyler, Molly, Nicole, Maggie and Andy; great-grandchildren, Emily and Taylor; cousins, Frank Wheatley and Cathy Courtwright; nephews, Rick Woodward and Bobby Woodward; niece, Kathy Smith; and special friend, Bob Cozart.

Dad grew up in Seaside, where he created fond childhood memories. He and his cousins would scout around the riverbank edges of the Necanicum River. He attended Seaside schools.

Growing up, he helped his father build many homes in Seaside. His childhood home still remains on F Street, and has their signature real brick fireplace and scalloped edge trim siding.

He purchased a house on Downing Street and made it the family home.

Dad’s dream was to own acreage, a garden and animals. They eventually purchased acreage where the Providence Seaside Hospital is now located. On that acreage Dad bought our first horse, Snip. Soon, we acquired a pony, Danny.

Due to the distance between the home and the horse field, Dad was on the hunt for a farm where we could all be together. He had his eye on property located on Clatsop Plains; “Weidler house.” When this property became available, Dad was able to purchase it. His dream had just begun!

On this property Dad remodeled the old house, fenced the property, built a garage and a beautiful barn. He and Mom had a garden plentiful with vegetables.

He was a member of the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Posse, where he served as the captain. He enjoyed riding horses, and competed in numerous game day events on his gaming horse, Demetrius.

Jack and his father were both lifetime members of the Seaside Elks Lodge.

He worked for the local power company for a few years, but his love for the forest was where he was meant to be. Dad worked for Crown Zellerbach for over 30 years, eventually working his way up to crew boss.

After Crown Zellerbach shut down, Dad bought a log truck and continued to work until Mom retired from her position at U.S. Bank.

After retirement, they spent time traveling in their RV, gardening and assisting the grandkids with their 4-H projects. He was a strong supporter of his kids’ and grandkids’ animal projects.

He assisted with the 4-H horse club, the Skyliners. He helped to train and raise many prize beef steer projects.

Dad, being an avid swimmer, started lap swimming at Seaside pool every morning for his exercise routine. He enjoyed hunting, always having a Labrador or Chesapeake retriever by his side to assist. He trained his dogs and entered them in field trial events receiving many honors. He leaves behind his Chesapeake, Soppie.

Dad had a strong wit! His nephews, Ricky and Bobby, would get a chuckle out of Uncle Jack. They continue to pass on his witty, jokester ways.

Thank you to Lower Columbia Hospice for their loving care, compassion and support during his final months. Memorial contributions can be made to Lower Columbia Hospice, 2111 Exchange St. Astoria, OR., 97103.