James D Winston

James D. Winston

James D. Winston, 85, died peacefully at home on June 8, 2012. Jim was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on August 15, 1926 to James A. and Margaret L. Winston. In 1941, Jim moved to Seattle, where he attended Ballard High School. Jim, also known as ‘Red’, was active in high school, taking on leadership roles, such as Vice President of Boy’s Club and Senior Class President. He graduated as Valedictorian of Ballard High School in 1944. Upon graduation, Jim served in the United States Army in the South Pacific Theater. Returning home with a disability, many months of rehab were required prior to Jim continuing his education at the University of Washington in the pre-med program. As fate would have it, while socializing with college friends, he met his lifelong wife and companion, Gladys. Jim and Gladys were married on November 26, 1948. They established their home in the Seattle-Renton area, where they raised their three children.In order to support his new family, Jim began working at Todd Shipyard. Soon after, an opportunity for a civil service career presented itself and Jim began a career of almost 40 years of civil service with the U.S. Navy in the Thirteenth Naval District. Jim excelled at his work and became the Contracting Officer for all shipbuilding and repair on the west coast for the U.S. Navy. He was intimately familiar with naval vessels and enjoyed his profession. Upon retirement, Jim was honored by the United States Navy with a Meritorious Civilian Service award. Retirement years allowed Jim and Gladys to actively pursue their love of touring and viewing the natural wonders of the National Parks and Monuments. Jim had a love and appreciation of reading, music, museums and engineering feats such as railroading and hydroelectric dams.Jim was preceded in death by his wife Gladys, who died on March 15, 2011. Jim is survived by his sons Michael (Jean), Kevin (Rebecca) and daughter Valerie Winston Healy (Stephen); grandchildren Britton, Christian, Ryan, Heather, and Hannah; eight great grand children, and many extended family members.A Memorial Mass was held at St. Barbara Catholic Church, 32416-D Sixth Avenue, Black Diamond, WA at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 23, 2012. Interment was on Monday, June 25, 9:00 a.m. at Tahoma National Cemetery with full military honors. 641846