James Ferris Van Gieson
June 23, 1921 – September 17, 2011
Jim Van Gieson passed away peacefully on Saturday September 17 at Washington State Veterans Home in Port Orchard, Washington. He lived for 90 years.
He is survived by his children – Julie Van Gieson of St. Charles, Illinois, Peter Van Gieson (Jeanne) of Springfield Illinois, John Van Gieson of Indianola, Kris Van Gieson (Kathie McCarthy) of Bainbridge Island – and grandchildren – Shelby and Kelsey Van Gieson and Kira and Izak McGieson.
Jim was born in Galesburg, Illinois to Earl and Ethel Van Gieson on June 23, 1921. He graduated from Galesburg High School in 1939 and Knox College in 1943. He served in the army during WWII in Italy. When he got back from the war he settled briefly in California and then returned home to Galesburg to take on the family business. He ran Ferris Moving and Storage and started Ferris Furniture with his father. Jim had an eye for good design and quality furniture.
Jim was married to Frances Carman for 24 years. While living in Galesburg he was a long time member of the Kiwanis Club. He attended Grace Episcopal Church and was instrumental in building a new church based on the design of a chambered nautilus. During the late 60’s and early 70’s he provided space for a coffee house in the basement of his warehouse for young people to gather for conversation and music.
He moved to Los Osos, California in 1980. Shortly after arriving in Los Osos he protested against building the Diablo Nuclear Plant. After it was built he worked there as a security guard for a short while. He very much enjoyed camping and loved Big Sur. He pursued his interests in spiritual practices and holistic healing.
Jim moved to Bainbridge Island shortly after attending the wedding of Kris and Kathie. He moved to Bainbridge in 1989 and volunteered at Helpline for many years.
Jim stayed in his home next to his son’s house until late last spring. Despite the physical limitations of his last few years he remained upbeat. He was deeply appreciative of his caregivers both in his home and at the Veteran’s home. His unique sense of humor stayed alive to the very end of his life.
A memorial service will be held at Grace Episcopal Church on Bainbridge at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday October 8.
Please sign the online Guest Book for the family at: www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com.
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