Service Details

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul Catholic Church
1201 Satre Street Eugene 97401
July 17th at 11am
Reception to follow

The Story

James "Jimmy J" Arlo Joranger 10/31/1950 - 06/26/2015

Jim passed away peacefully at his home in Springfield on June 26th surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Eugene Oregon on Halloween, 1950 to Arlo and Lynette (Marshall) Joranger.

He graduated from Springfield High School in 1968. He was active in band as a drummer, and lettered in football and Wrestling. He was also a very active competition roller skater and won many awards in speed and partner's figure skating.

Jim served in the US Navy from 1970-1972 where he became a Seabee and played drums in the Navy Band. He performed for President Nixon and play on the field of Dodger Stadium. We was fortunate to travel to many places during his service.

In 1980, he married Joann (Wiley) Carlson. Together they had Jodi Marie. Jim was an exemplary father who loved unconditionally. He and Joann remained caring friends till the end. Other survivors include a son in law; Dan Strausbaugh, two grandson's; Jason and Levi. Step children, Nathan Banegas and Stephanie Gutierrez. As well as his Lady, Sandra Vanderzanden.

Jim loved all things automotive. His life's passion was building hot rods, cruising, racing, and showing his beloved vehicles. He was a skilled body man, fabricator, painter, welder and glass cutter. He earned his A.S.E. Master Technician certification in auto body, frame and paint. He shared his knowledge with many whom he mentored. He always worked in the industry in Lane County either in collision repair or custom restorations. He owned several shops including Joranger's Old Fashion Body Service, Joranger's Metal Laundry and Jimmy J's Rods and Trucks.

In 2002 he was recruited to become an instructor at Wyotech University in Laramie Wyoming. He taught courses on Chassis Fabrication, High-performance Engines, and Street Rod and Custom Fabrication. While there, he earned his Bachelor's degree in Education Technology.

Jim courageously battled metastatic prostate cancer for almost 6 years. He was an inspiration to all who knew him during his fight. His humor, positive attitude, huge heart and love for life enabled him to keep going. Praise God for Jim's salvation. He was baptized in March of this year. He leaves a legacy of integrity, perseverance, strength, compassion and unending love. He will be so dearly missed. We will meet again in Heaven.

Thank you to Willamette Valley Cancer Institute and everyone in the support group, Cascade Hospice, Dr. Graff and the oncology nurses at Portland VA.
So many great friends have been such a help the last few months. Thank you so much to those who helped make his last cruise a success.

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul Catholic Church
1201 Satre Street Eugene 97401
July 17th at 11am
Reception to follow

Donations can be made in his name to St. Paul Catholic Church or
Zerocancer.org www.zerodiyfundraising.org/tribute/jimjoranger