James Charles Cartwright

Dr. James Charles Cartwright was born in Seaside on Jan. 13, 1938, to Charles and Okema (Heckard) Cartwright. He passed away peacefully at his home in Astoria on June 15.


He spent his childhood and early adult life on the family golf course in Seaside, which led to his avid love of golf his entire life. He attended Seaside schools. He graduated from Seaside High School in 1956 with a group of friends he would stay close to until his death.

He served in the U.S. National Guard Reserve. He attended Grays Harbor (Washington) College on a golf scholarship for two years and then finished his undergraduate degree at Portland State University.

He entered Oregon Health & Science University Dental School in 1960 and graduated in 1964. He practiced in San Jose and Los Gatos, California, until 1994. He then returned to his roots on the North Coast, where he finished the last 22 years of his 52-year dental career.

He was a member and former president of the Astoria Golf and Country Club.

He is survived by his wife, Pamela; sons, Andrew (Nicole), Steven, Patrick (Linata) and Jimmy; and four grandchildren, Connor, Adonis, Gabriella and Adaline. He is also survived by his brother, Jack (Jane); sister, Lynn Thomas; numerous sisters and brothers-in-laws; along with many nieces and nephews and many close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Okema; and his sister, Sue Clark.

His celebration of life will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. July 15 at the Seaside Golf Course, 451 Avenue U in Seaside. All friends and those who knew Jim are welcome.