James N. Gilbert age 94 passed away suddenly at his home in Warm Beach, Stanwood, WA surrounded by loved ones.

He was born in Seattle WA to James and Casandra Gilbert.

James graduated from Cleveland Junior & Senior High, Seattle in 1947. After graduation James moved up to Warm Beach where he met and married Merna Price. They were married for 59yrs until her passing in 2010.

James had many short jobs before he went to work at GTE. He was a deckhand for the ferry, "Kalahala" and the "Iroquois". He worked at RD Bodles Cannery, Sears Roebuck, and Boeing. He worked for GTE for 35yrs as a Central Office Equipment Installer.

James and Merna raise four children: Lory, Wendel, Yvonne, and Thomas. The family had a small farm raising cattle, chicken, ducks, pigs, and horses. Before and after work James would milk the family cow and the rest of the family would water and feed all the other animals. Every year James and Merna enjoyed vegetable gardening and canning.

After retiring James helped Cascade Valley Hospital get their Lifeline System going, volunteering for 11 yrs installing special lines for seniors and the disabled. He joined the Stan/Cam Beekeepers Club and the WB Comm. Assoc. where he helped with the WBCA Park and Summerfest and the Stan/Cam fair.

After Merna's passing James began attending Thursday night dinners at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, first because he was a terrible cook and secondly, he needed fellowship. James loved fishing, camping and helping anyone who needed help with their car, radio, TV or appliances. His shop was always scattered with parts and tools. If you needed something he would probably have it.

James attended WB Community Church, Jakes House and WB Free Methodist Church, where he found love, faith and acceptance. Jim and Merna adopted many a lonely family who needed a good fatherly or motherly hug or advice.

James was preceded in death by his wife Merna, his brother, Jack & Margie (Hart), his sister Beth & Ervin Forslund, and daughter, Lory Lukehart. He is survived by Wendel and wife Rhoda Gilbert, Yvonne and husband Alan Thomle, Thomas Gilbert and sister, Mary Poole (97), 7 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

Thank you all for your love and support.

James's memorial service will be held May 20 ^th , 3pm at Warm Beach Community Association Park, 19016 94 ^th Dr NW, Stanwood WA 98292 07