James Avery Gast

Met Dr. James Gast in 1967 taking Oceanography 100 as a freshman at HSC. Without a doubt, he became one of my most influential professors. Became a friend of Captain Jim and his family; wife,Thea and his three sons: Karl, Tom and Avery on one of the most life changing experiences of my life voyaging from Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin through the the Panama Canal ending in Humboldt Bay. Been such a honor and privilege to have known you. West Winds to ya Captain.

I am so sorry to hear this. I met Dr. Gast back in the summer of 1981 with the National Science Foundation Summer Science Institute. He taught 60 high school kids, six days a week, then drove the bus on field trips all over Humboldt County, and even gave lectures in the evenings. When I came back up to HSU a year later, he was my mentor and sounding board...and friend.

Dear Thea, Karl, Tom & AveryI am sorry to hear of Jim's passing, but celebrate his life well lived.

As a kid growing up with Karl, it was always so fun to see Jim and hear his terrific stories. He had such a twinkle in his eye and I truly delighted in every encounterboth in my youth and adulthood as well.

The love he felt for you, Thea, and his sons was evident and I'm sure you feel his absence. I know I still miss my dad everyday.

Best wishes for happy memories to be...

I can still remember the lecture he gave our 6th grade class back in 1967. Loved it.

"If you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life." That was written for him. By far my favorite teacher when I went to HSU.
Jerry Wallace

Thank you for the wonderful biographical notes about Jim. Only now do I find out that he was active in the Sea Scouts - an organization dear to my heart. Wish I had been able to tell him of how it played such an important part in my family's life. It was a joy to learn of his rich life and I'm glad you two had many good years together even though it has been difficult these last years. My thoughts are with you.
Sylvia Haven

Dear Thea, so sorry to learn of Jim's passing. It was a pleasure and an honor to sail with him on the R/V Catalyst. I owe Jim my 35 year career in Oceanography. Our condolences to you and your family
Steve and Kathy Cook

So sorry to learn of Jim's passing. Always honored that when he would come to the house, he came to the back door because he said, "Guests come to the front door, friends come to the back door. You will be truly missed.
Connie Beardsley

Dear Thea, Karl, Tom and Avery We are sorry for your loss. I will miss Jim, you know from our conversations how I felt. Edith and I offer our condolences.

Edith and John Hokman