James Delbert Pense: May 1, 1948 – March 18, 2025

ST. HELENS- James Delbert Pense passed away March 18, 2025 at the age of 76. He was born May 1, 1948 to Lavere and Violet (Riley) Pense in Pierre, South Dakota. As a young child his family made the move out west and settled in Portland, Oregon where he grew up and attended school graduating with the class of 67 from David Douglas High School.
James married Virginia “Ginger” Alldridge on August 5, 1970, the next day he left for Vietnam. He served in the United States Army for 10 years in both Vietnam and South Korea. After his discharge from the service in 1978 he became a diesel mechanic and worked at Wholesale Truck Parts in Portland. In 1990 James and Ginger moved out to Columbia County, they joined the St. Helens Christian Church. James enjoyed fishing, hunting and camping.
He is survived by his wife Ginger, their three sons; James Jr (Andrea), David (Julie), and Don (Windy), his siblings; John, Deb, Jerry, and Colice, 10 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Cathy Smith.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 12PM at St. Helens Christian Church.