Obituary of James Allen Atwood

The community mourns the loss of James Allen Atwood, who passed away on March 10, 2024, in Gilbert, Arizona after bravely battling a rare neurological brain disorder.

Born on January 1, 1961, in Honolulu, Hawaii to Glen and Holly Atwood, Jim excelled in sports, graduating from Ingraham High School in 1979 as a standout football and baseball player. Despite injuries hindering his professional baseball aspirations, Jim continued to coach Little League and play fastpitch. Later, transitioning to Atwood Construction with his father, he built stunning homes across the Northwest after a stint in commercial fishing. In 1996, Jim embarked on a law enforcement career as a Reserve Officer with the Everett Police Department, later joining Monroe Police full-time in 2000, primarily serving as a School Resource Officer, before joining the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office in 2006. His dedication to public service, compassion and generosity earned him admiration throughout his 25-year tenure until his retirement in 2021.

Jim was incredibly passionate. He cherished baseball, and watching his son Andy's journey from childhood to professional baseball felt like living out his dream. He loved his job in law enforcement; he epitomized service and protection for his community with a work ethic like no other. Jim also loved to play, enjoying the "shock factor" and eliciting reactions from people with his playful antics, reminding us not to take life too seriously. His infectious smile and the twinkle in his eye will be dearly missed by many.

Jim's legacy lives on through his son, Andrew Atwood, and surviving family members, including his sisters Debra Atwood and Robyn (Gilbert) Majano, brother Michael Atwood, and "Team Atwood" including Scott Rohlinger, Nichole Rohlinger, Kristine Hofmann, and Kathy Atwood, as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life memorial will be held on April 6, 2024 at 10:00am at the Gold Creek Community Church, 4326 148th St. SE, Mill Creek, WA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim's honor to support those in need at Cocoon House, the Everett Gospel Mission or to the Snohomish County K-9 Foundation.