It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James Richard Cendejas, 72, who left this earth peacefully on May 3rd, 2025, at his home in Puyallup, WA surrounded by his loving family. He will be deeply missed by all who know him.

Born on February 5th,1953 in Los Angeles, California, he was the oldest of three children born to Otillia Lopez. When Jim was 13, he and his family moved to Washington State where he attended East Jr. High (now Kalles Jr. High), then on to Roger's High School where he met his high school sweetheart, Barb.

Jim was an incredible track star in high school and college, with a real gift for long-distance running, taking top place in numerous races, a testament to his dedication and grit. But running wasn't his only passion, he also loved motocross and took part in races at the old Puyallup motocross track in Puyallup, WA, always chasing that next challenge. When it came to running hills, Jim had a simple philosophy: if you can make it to the top, the hardest part is behind you—just keep going. That wasn't just how he ran; it was how he lived his life.

Jim had a curious mind and a real love for learning how things worked. He took pride in teaching himself how to build and create, always eager to take on a new project. When his growing family needed more space at home, Jim didn't hesitate, he rolled up his sleeves and, with the help of family and neighbors, built an addition himself. Later in life, he found joy in designing and crafting flower boxes and birdhouses, which he often gave as thoughtful gifts to those he cared about.

Jim had a truly kind and generous spirit. He found joy in simple acts of kindness—like bringing flowers to friends who needed a lift or spending time chatting with people from all walks of life. Over the years, through running and motocross, he collected a number of trophies. But one summer afternoon, he gathered all the neighborhood kids for a little dirt-bike race and, afterward, handed out his trophies to them as prizes. That moment captured who Jim was—thoughtful, selfless, and always looking for ways to bring happiness to others. That same generosity stayed with him throughout his life.

Jim's career as a professional painter spanned more than 50 years—a lifetime of dedication to his craft. In 1985, he founded his own company, Starburst Painting, and worked steadily up until just a month before his passing. Throughout his career, he painted thousands of homes and businesses, leaving his mark on the community through projects that included historic landmarks like the Meeker Mansion, Pohlman's, the Herald buildings in Puyallup, and the Foss Waterway Seaport in Tacoma. Those who worked with Jim—whether clients or fellow tradespeople—respected him for his outstanding workmanship, sharp eye for detail, and his commitment to doing the job right and doing it efficiently. Jim didn't just build a business—he built a legacy within his family. He passed on his strong work ethic and deep sense of pride in a job well done to his children, all of whom worked alongside him at some point. He cherished the time they spent together, both on and off the jobsite. His kids fondly remember how he'd say, "Let me show you a little trick," before teaching them a new painting technique—one of many "dad-isms" that will always bring a smile and a memory to his children.

Jim's love for food was something everyone close to him knew well. He truly appreciated a thoughtfully prepared—and often colorful—plate of food. He was famous for creating his own unique "concoctions," always throwing in an unexpected ingredient that, to him, was exactly what brought the whole dish together.

Jim was also devoted to his Christian faith. He served faithfully as a church elder for many years and found joy in singing with the church choir. In his final days, he drew great peace from his belief that his Heavenly Father had a plan for him—and that he was being lovingly called home.

Jim is survived by his wife, Barb, of 52 years; his four children, Edwin Cendejas, Amanda Wallis (Chris), Kate Cendejas-Thun (Josh), and Sara Cendejas-Zarelli (Philip); his grandsons', Jakob (Leah), Cosmo, Felix, and August; his great-grandson Elias; his loving sisters, Cindi Cendejas-Beville (James) and Liv Ginther (Gary); and a multitude of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, whom he cherished. He is preceded in death by his mother Tilly Darrow.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 31st at Jim and Barb's home in Puyallup, WA. from 4-6 pm. All who knew and loved Jim are welcome to attend his celebration of life.

Please consider honoring Jim's memory with flowers to the family or contributions to Jim's Gofundme account ( https://gofund.me/7908d660 ), which will help offset funeral costs.