James 'Jim' Eisses, 87

James (Jim) Eisses was born in Ellertshaar, Drenthe, the Netherlands in 1936, the second son of Willem and Johanna Eisses. Childhood was a mix of rural farm life and the challenge of occupation during the War years. The family emigrated to the U.S. in 1950 first to North Carolina and then settling in Mt. Vernon, Wash. Jim worked hard to assimilate and succeed, graduating from Mt. Vernon High School where he was involved in several sports. He received a scholarship to Stanford University obtaining a degree in mechanical engineering after which he spent time in the Navy as part of the UDT (Underwater Demolition Team, Precursor to the Navy Seals). 

He met his wife, Judy, in San Fransisco. They were married in 1964 and began their life together in Redding, Calif. Jim worked in the timber industry, eventually becoming COO for Louisiana Pacific.

After retiring Jim continued consulting within the timber industry. He also was able to pursue his love of travel and hiking, visiting every continent with his wife. He climbed Machu Picchu, Mt. Kilimanjaro and the Haute Trail in Switzerland. He walked across England and hiked the Chilcoot and West Coast Trails with his special friends. 

His contributions to the community were extensive, some recognized and others discreet. He served on the Board of Directors of Kootenai Health, NIC Foundation Board and Idaho Independent Bank. He was a long-time member of Coeur d’Alene Bible Church. 

Through all his adventures and accomplishments, the most important thing to him was his belief and reliance on a loving God, who is with us in the good and the challenging times. He never failed to acknowledge Jesus’ provision. He also valued his amazing children and grandchildren. He will be missed by his family and many friends. 

He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, John and Jack Eisses; two sisters, Hennie Brooks and Ann Eisses; and his eldest son, Randy Eisses. He is survived by his wife, Judy; two sons, John (Laura) Eisses and Mike (Donna) Eisses; and six grandchildren: Tyler, Anna, Ellie, Seth, Olivia and Meredith Eisses.

There will be a memorial and celebration of his life at a future date. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kootenai Health Foundation at www.kootenaihealthfoundation.org.

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with final arrangements. Please visit Jim's online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.