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James Christopher Obituary

JAMES GRAY CHRISTOPHER James Gray Christopher, "LaserJimC" beloved husband, father, brother and grandfather passed away the afternoon of April 29, with his wife of 55 years Gina and daughter Sharon at his side, after a month-long battle with cancer. Jim was born and raised in Olympia, Washington, the eldest of four children. Jim was best known for being an avid and skilled sailor with a quirky sense of humor and a very competitive nature, as well as being a fitness enthusiast. Jim worked at Crown Simpson Pulp mill as a shift engineer. Jim opted for an early retirement to enjoy his favorite past times, sailing regattas and biking and helping to raise his grandson Larry Sillaway. In 1991 Jim dominated the Grand Masters Division at the North American Laser Master Championship at Shilshole, Washington. Jim became a member of the Humboldt Yacht Club in 1970. It was through the yacht club that Jim met many of his dearest friends, attending Regattas within the United States and others as far away as New Zealand, Australia and Chili. We love you Jim, we think of you every day. May the wind always be at your back and the sun shine warmly on your face. Jim is survived by his wife Gina, daughter Sharon (Larry Naranjo son-in-law), Grandsons Ian and Alejandro Naranjo, sisters Sonja Shumaker and Gretchen Christopher, brother William Ian Christopher, Niece Kimari Helmer (husband Christopher, daughters Kamiel and Lily) nephew Christopher Matzen (wife Gina, daughters Tessa and Avery, son Gray) nephew Dan Shumaker (wife Toni and daughter Lucy) Please sign the guestbook at www.times-standard.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Times-Standard on May 20, 2018.

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Al Sargent

July 12, 2023

I first met Jim back in the 1980s while racing Laser sailboats. I was a teen, and was amazed at this ancient (i.e., 50-something) who was so fit and hard to beat. He had a quiet dedication to the sport, and was a fixture in the Laser class for decades. We all admire his passion and discipline that led to a level of fitness that we should all aspire to as we age. We've missed Jim since he's passed, but he remains an inspiration for us all.

Mike Rickman

May 24, 2018

Sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Have some great memories sailing several races around Nor Cal with Jim. Great sailor who taught me a lot. Have some great Jim stories to tell some day when back in Hum Co.
Sail On Jim

May 24, 2018

I miss you dad, everyday. You were a wonderful father, patient, caring and you had the greatest sense of humor. You were one of a kind. I am so fortunate to have had you as my dad. I love you!

May 24, 2018

Sorry to hear about Jim's passing. Have some great memories sailing with Jim in several races around Northern Calif. Great sailor who taught me bunches. Have some great Jim stories to share someday. Sail on Jim!

Jerry McCurtain

May 22, 2018

Saddened to hear of Jim's passing. I worked with Jim for many years. Quick witted, always smiling, and he left us all better than he found us. RIP Jim.

May 20, 2018

Jim was a great King Salmon neighbor. and a fine sailor. Very energetic to the last. A fine example set for us all to follow. Rest in peace my friend. A life well lived!
Chris

Mike Woychak

May 20, 2018

We shared many great bike rides together. I will miss riding with you.

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