Page created by: J Nikkel

Jim cherished life's gifts and used them well. In Winnipeg, Manitoba, December 25, 1930, Marvin James was born to George and Martha Nikkel, their fourth child of six. During the depression, they lived in rural Saskatchewan. As a child, Jim already displayed his fiercely independent spirit, dreaming of travel to far-off destinations. He was fascinated by sailing vessels, airplanes, and possible outer space travel, which some thought was pie-in-the-sky! As an adult, he was able to go to the far east with friends. At around age 20, in Vancouver BC Jim saw Louise at a church event, and instantly admired her gentle nature. The two became abiding life partners for over 57 years. Family and friends considered Jim a true storyteller, who was always candid, sometimes larger than life, and ever proud of his loved ones. Jim's ability to maintain a positive outlook was evident to everyone who knew him, and positivity helped him overcome health issues throughout his adult life.

The family moved to near Seattle in the mid 60s. Jim took a lot of pride in both family and work. His long career included fundraising and public relations for corporations and non-profit agencies. He introduced us to associates and people from many different backgrounds. A real fan of Star Trek, he once met 'Spock' at a benefit for Children's Hospital (just one highlight) Among his talents were writing, public speaking, and singing. Known for his vocal gifts, he was a choir director in Vancouver and a song leader in Edmonds and Hawaii, also singing at events for friends and family. Vacations with four kids had involved some form of camping. Then a tour of Oahu with good friends changed the course of our lives, when we discovered the aloha spirit.

When their kids had left home, Jim & Louise set out to make Hawaii a reality. She worked as a magazine copy editor, and he was director of the Pacific Aerospace Museum (n0w part of Pearl Harbor museum). A 'task' was interviewing a couple of WWII era pilots. In the sixth year of "living their dream", Jim was diagnosed with Parkinson's . While confronting PD, heart disease, early stage cancer, etc., Jim maintained a fairly full life, hosting friends and family from the mainland, attending church, working when possible, and trying lessons in tennis with two rackets. In 1994 , the couple said goodbye to many friends in their second home and moved back to the PNW. Family lived nearby, and Jim also kept in touch with extended family and friends, even as his mobility decreased. During this time, his inner strength and sense of humor were clear in journal writings. Besides providing an outlet, a goal of his journaling was a road map of sorts for someone living with a disabling condition like Parkinson's.

Jim's fortitude was evident throughout his 21-year battle with Parkinson's. He really never lost sight of the possibilities that life offers and did not let the disease define him. Family was with him at the time of his passing in late 2010. His loving wife joined her soulmate in 2015. Jim's honesty, faith, and optimism inspired many, and gave us a great lesson in the power of positive thinking. A tribute to his inspiring life is a way to honor his memory and continue the battle in his honor.