James Elder, 68

James Sanderson Elder, of Coeur d’Alene, peacefully passed away on April 15, 2013, at his home in Fernan Village surrounded by his loving family and faithful wife, Helen. Jim was born June 2, 1944, in Duluth, Minn., Robert N. and Rosalea (Sanderson) Elder. The family returned to Coeur d’Alene in 1945 when his father accepted a position to practice law within the family law firm.

Jim attended Coeur d’Alene High School, furthered his matriculation at the University of Maryland and finally received a Master of Business of Administration degree from American University while under the tutelage of Democratic Senator Frank Church.

Prior to graduation, he served his country in the United States Coast Guard then Jim continued to work for Senator Church and later for Potlatch Corporation. In the interim, he married his wonderful wife, Helen Katherine Henderson. They had two children, Robert Noble and Christina Marie (Bill). The family transferred to California where Jim continued his successful career.

His professional accomplishments are extensive and include a position as President of David W. Evans Advertising Agency, Gardco Lighting as a Vice President and partner, and finally his retirement as owner and President of Associated Lighting Representative (Fortune 500 Company) in the year 2000. Jim’s work ethic is surpassed by few.

Jim was a family man. His main focus in life was the betterment and care of each of his family members. His desire was to leave it a bit better and this transcribed into his relationships within his family as well. He was blessed to have five grandchildren that gave life true meaning. Lauren Marie, William Stephen, Madison Christine, Ellen Rosalea and James Christion were his “Specials” as he would often lovingly refer to them. In his final days the love, support and care by his wife Helen; oldest son, Bobby and his oldest granddaughter, Lauren needs to be recognized and emulated by each of us. As Jim would say,” respecting others, doing right and a legacy is all we truly have” and this is what his life genuinely reflected.

He is also survived by his father’s son, Bob Elder and family. His loving cousins, Dr. Mary Sanderson and Sandy Sanderson (Holladay) were his childhood family and later life confidantes. There are numerous nieces and nephews that Jim and Helen mentored and loved. Helen Pischner, Cynthia Pischner Raynor (Ron), Lisa Elder Delitch (Joseph) and Jeremiah James Elder (Tiffany); a special nephew representative, Tracy Petragallo (Carol) and Arlene Pischner (sister of Helen), are all notable. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Noble; loving mother, Rosalea Sanderson Elder Moore and younger brother, William Thomas.

A private family graveside memorial will be held at a later date in Forest Cemetery with Yates Funeral Home, Coeur d’Alene Chapel, in care of the arrangements. Please visit Jim’s memorial and sign his online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.