Kookmin Merril Kim

Dr. Kookmin M. Kim, 84, died on September 7, 2020.  He was born on April 24, 1936 in Chulsan, Korea. Dr. Kim graduated from university and medical school from the prestigious Seoul National University. During his time in medical school, he met many friends with whom he enjoyed hiking and mountain climbing. He married his wife, Kong Ja Kim on June 14, 1964 and emigrated to the United States in 1966. He spent his career as a research pathologist for the Veteran’s Administration and a Professor of Pathology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, both in Baltimore, MD.  He then served both roles again at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Shreveport, LA and LSU-Shreveport.  During his professional career, he authored numerous publications on the pathology of calcification.

In 2002, he retired to the beautiful area of Sequim, WA and enjoyed many years on his sailboat with his wife by his side as well as working on his woodworking projects. He loved visits from his seven grandsons--who knew him best as Haba--and enjoyed sharing his life lessons with them through parables, advice, and good old fashioned handiwork. His family will miss his funny stories, boundless wisdom, and dry sense of humor. He had a talent for language and music and a lifetime love of learning, which his grandchildren carry forward as part of his legacy.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his three children: Thomas (Rochelle Ruffer), Jane (Matthew  Lane) and Arnold (Christine Isborn) and seven grandsons: Nathaniel and Jonathan Kim; Connor, Andrew, and Eric Lane; and William Kookmin and Joseph Kim.

A special thank you to all the neighbors who have been good to Dr. and Mrs. Kim over the years. You are much appreciated.

Family will celebrate his life later next summer when all the children and grandchildren can travel safely after COVID-19. Arrangements are being held by Linde-Price Funeral Service.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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