James (Jim) Ernest Picicci, age 80, of Spokane, WA, passed away peacefully on April 24 at his home surrounded by family days following an unexpected cancer diagnosis. Jim was born to Joseph and Venita (Veltrie) Picicci on September 17th, 1943, and spent his early childhood in Almira, WA.  Following the death of his father when Jim was 11, he, his mother, and siblings moved to Spokane.  He attended St. Francis Xavier grade school, Gonzaga Preparatory High School ('61) and EWU ('68.)

He married the love of his life, Joanne Aquino in October of 1969.  They shared 54 wonderful years together and raised two children, Jim and Janet. Jim spent his career with the Washington State Employment Security Office.

Jim was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed his abundant vegetable garden, all music, his horseshoe pit, and playing the guitar. He bought his 1957 Chevy at age 19 and enjoyed driving it throughout his life. He was a devout Catholic in his daily life. Jim cherished his time with his siblings and Picicci and Aquino Italian families.  In 2006, Jim became a grandfather to "Rosebud," Josephine Rose. Being her "Nanu" brought him profound joy as he watched her grow these last 17 years.

Jim is predeceased by his parents, sisters Louise Clary, Josephine Melnick, brother Jack, and brother-in-law Michael Aquino.  He is survived by wife Joanne, son Jim, daughter Janet Anselmo (Tony), granddaughter Josephine Anselmo, brothers Sam (Sandie), Joe, Dean (Toni), sister-in-law Nancy Aquino, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim's name to Hospice of Spokane P.O. Box 2215 Spokane, WA 99210 or a charity of choice.