James Gonser

James E. Gonser, age 85, passed away on March 27, 2017. James was born on January 6, 1932 in Parnell, Missouri to Clarence and Mildred (Smith) Gonser. He was one of four children. At the age of 12 during WWII, Jim, his siblings and mother traveled by train to Sumas, WA to join their father on the family farm. James was a star football player, graduating from Nooksack Valley in 1950. He married Mary Siguaw on November 3, 1951. James was always self-employed. He and Mary farmed on their own dairy. He soon began his own A.I. business, where he helped many herds in the area become top milk producers. Among others, his son Mike became the top producing herd in the nation for 9 years. He loved to lend a helping hand, got along with everyone and was known for being tough as nails. He was a cow man at heart. James is preceded in death by his sister Frances Groves and his parents. He is survived by his wife Mary of 65 years, sons Michael (Elena) of Everson and Mark (Karen) of Alaska, daughter Gail Pike of Bellingham, grandsons David (Tessa) Pike and Daniel Pike, great granddaughter Samara, brother Eldon (Marilyn) Gonser of Indiana, and sister Joyce (Curt) Robinson of Everson. A Memorial service will be 12:30 pm, on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at Sumas Advent Christian Church, Sumas with Carl Crouse officiating. Memorials are suggested to a charity of your choice. You are invited to share your condolences and memories in the online guestbook at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com.