James E. Salsbery, born July 14, 1942, in Prineville, and passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025, at the age of 82. He was the beloved son of Joe and Bessie (Clear) Salsbery.

Jim was a proud member of the 4th Brigade of the Army Reserves, demonstrating a dedication to service that he carried throughout his life. After graduating from Maupin High School in 1961, he found his way to Burns, where he met Carol Ann Daniel. Together, they welcomed their first daughter, Wendi, in 1970 and twins: Jami and James in 1976. Jim’s career in law enforcement began in Halsey, Ore., before moving to Sweet Home, where he worked at the jail. He later became a deputy with the Linn County Sheriff’s Office in 1973. His dedication and hard work earned him a promotion to detective before he retired in July 1996, capping a 25-year career.

Jim pursued his passions with tireless dedication, he always gave his best effort. From racquetball and biking to running, triathlons, and the Police Olympics, he gave his all. Later in life, golf became his obsession, playing every day the weather allowed, often completing 36-holes a day. Even when dementia slowed him, his tenacity remained; he walked 15 to 17 miles a week well into his care.

Jim is survived by his loving family: daughter, Wendi Melcher and son-in-law, Scott; daughter, Jami Snyder and son-in-law, John; son, James Salsbery and Kristy Loewen; his cherished grandchildren, Nathaniel Melcher (Shantel), Christopher Melcher (Milah), Jackson Lynn, John Lynn, Jillian Lynn, Joseph, Josh, Lilly, and Tyson Salsbery; as well as three great-grandchildren, Elliott, Emillia and Ellora Melcher, will carry on his legacy. He is also survived by his twin sister, Jeanette Berry of Burns; sister, Patricia Baugher of McClure, Ill; sister, Phyllis Claughton; and brother, Robert Salsbery and wife, Linda of Burns.

Jim shared 15 wonderful years of travel, family, and companionship with his life partner, Carol Ann Anderson of Albany. They traveled, they spent time with both families and shared so much together. She was always there for him and always took the time when he got sick to care for him and loved him till the end. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Bessie Salsbery; his sisters: Betty Martin, Billie Petersen, Phyllis Claughton; and his brother, Bud Salsbery.

To those who knew him, Jim was a character – tenacious, thoughtful, and never a stranger to anyone. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, often sharing stories from his days in law enforcement or recounting a funny moment from the golf course. Whether making people laugh or lending a helping hand, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He had a quick wit, a generous heart, and a drive to live life to the fullest. Even as dementia took hold, he never stopped being an officer at heart, always on duty, always working. Jim’s legacy is one of strength, determination, and love—a life well-lived. May he rest in peace.

Services were held Friday, April 4, at St. Helen Catholic Church, in Sweet Home. Sweet Home Funeral Chapel handled arrangements. www.sweethomefuneral.com.