James Franklin Robison, 76
James “Jim R” Franklin Robison, of Spokane Valley, Wash., passed into the arms of his Heavenly Father peacefully with his family at his side on Jan. 21, 2016, at the age of 76. Jim was born on July 23, 1939, in Burley, Idaho, to John and Janice (Bostic) Robison.
Jim and his family moved to Athol, Idaho, where he attended Athol Elementary School and met Wilma Bailey at the very early age of 7 years old. She later became his sweetheart at Spirit Lake High School and they were married on July 25, 1957, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Jim and Wilma later divorced in 1987.
James F. Robison, EM2 (SS) (nicknamed Jim, Robbie and Jimbo by his mates) proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1957 to 1960. He was stationed in San Diego, Calif., serving as an electricians mate on board the USS Tilefish SS307 (1957-1959) and USS Pomodon SS487 (1959-1960). While stationed in San Diego, Jim and Wilma welcomed their first child, Terri.
After the Navy, Jim worked as an apprentice electrician for Fred Markley (Markley Electric) in Pullman, Wash. Adding two more children, Rebecca and Pamela, to the family. Jim began a partnership with Fred and the business moved to Hayden Lake in 1967. He later branched off, operating Robison Electric for four years before joining the IBEW Local 73 Electrical Workers Union in Spokane, Wash., where he was involved in the new Coulee Dam construction of the Third Power-plant Expansion of the turbines and generators and the Diablo Canyon Power Plant in San Luis Obispo, Calif. After retiring from the union he enrolled in Lewis-Clark State College and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business in 1989.
Jim was a member of the Hayden Lake Volunteer Fire Department from 1970 to 1974. He also volunteered his time at the VA Hospital in Spokane and many other area recovery programs.
Jim was a friend of Bill W. for 36 years. There was never a bigger heart or a non-judging soul as Jim R. His hugs were special and he had a huge hug for everyone!
He met and married the love of his life, Cindy Higdem in 2003. Cindy and Jim continued their beautiful journey together until his death. She meant the world to him! They shared a life of being incredible friends to so many but especially to each other.
Jim is survived by his wife, Cindy; daughters Terri Erickson (Jody) of Camano Island, Wash., Becky Lee (Marti) of Post Falls, Idaho, and Pamela Crowe of Coeur d’Alene. Jim has 10 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He leaves behind many friendships including his bestie, Stan and his beloved dog, Bear. He is preceded by his parents, John and Janice Robison; and sister Betty (Robison) McKitrick.
A celebration of Jim’s life at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 29, 2016, at American Legion Post 143, 1138 E. Poleline, Post Falls, with a potluck reception to follow.
“Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!”
English Funeral Chapel is credited for the arrangements. Please sign Jim’s registry and view his online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.