Ballard James Whitaker

Ballard James Whitaker (Jim), age 83 from Wapato WA.

Jim passed away peacefully while residing at Emerald Care on January 12, 2026.

He was born in Wapato WA. at Days Nursing Home on April 1, 1942 to Ballard and Lydia (Berg) Whitaker. Jim was educated in Wapato and Naches schools in Washington State.

In April 14,1959 he joined the United States Coast Guard and was discharged on June 4, 1963.
While employed at Valley Fruit he met Sheila (Hauck). They married on July 10, 1971 at their home of 54 years. “Jim’s first business experience was as a vacuum salesman, manager and repairman for the Kirby Company in Yakima and Sunnyside Shops from 1972-1975. In 1976 he managed Wapato Lanes, where he offered multiple bowling leagues, and a successful establishment for all ages in the community. In April of 1979 he and his wife opened a well established business “Tiny’s Tavern”. There is a photo and written article located in the Prints and Photos Division at The Library of Congress in Washington DC to acknowledge the existing historical building and sign. Country Roads Cafe was the next purchase in March of 1986 as well as opening a small import store and a second hand store there after. All of the other businesses were sold, but “Jim” continued working at his pride and joy “Tiny’s Tavern”, until retirement in October 31, 2017.

Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, reading, bowling, golfing, and vacationing. He and his wife went on Cruises, multiple vacations with friends and family, and relaxing at the local casino.

Ballard “Jim” was preceded in death by his parents, Ballard and Lydia ; brothers Ron, Fred, David and Albert and sister Carol (Lamoreaux).

“Jim” is survived by his wife Sheila; Sister Patty (Brierly) of Utah; daughter Tammy and husband Lupe Lopez; son Ballard James “Jimmy” Whitaker; grandsons Lupe Lopez Jr., and Ballard “James” Whitaker; granddaughters Nicole (Carrillo), Wendy, Megan (Iffrig) of Maryland; grandson in-laws Alfredo Carrillo, Eric DeLeon, and Dillon Iffrig; great-grandchildren Levi Iffrig, Santiago Carrillo, Riley Iffrig, Amilia Carrillo, and Carson Iffrig.

The Celebration of life of Ballard James “Jim” Whitaker will be Saturday February 21, 2026 from 12PM to 4PM at The Wapato American Legion 133.

There are no words that can express how grateful and blessed we are to our friends, and neighbors that were a part of “Jim’s life. We are also appreciative to the caregivers and all medical personnel that cared for “Jim” during his last days.