James Richard Vella: December 4, 1937 – September 5, 2026

SCAPPOOSE- James Vella of Scappoose, Oregon passed away September 5, 2026, at the age of 88.  He was born December 4, 1937, in Newark, New Jersey to James A. and Alice (Carlstaat) Vella.  In 1958 James married his love Mary Stern at St. Joseph’s Church in Maplewood, New Jersey, a year later they moved out west to Oregon. 

James received his master’s degree from the University of Portland and taught Phys Ed at Scappoose Middle School.  He also coached Track and Field for Scappoose High School for many years before retiring.  Even in his retirement his love of track and field was something he held on to, and he coached at West View High in Hillsboro. 

James is survived by his three daughters; Virginia, Jennifer, and Cynthia; two brothers, four grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his wife Mary.

A graveside service will be held October 3, 2026 at 10:30 AM at Columbia Memorial Gardens in Scappoose, Oregon.