James E Phelps

Feb. 8, 1923 - May 11, 2019 James Earl Phelps died May 11, 2019 at his home on Drift Creek in the care of his wife and family. He was 96. Mr. Phelps was born February 8, 1923 in Portland, Oregon, the son of Walter and Emma Phelps. James, known as Jim, was a WWII veteran who enlisted in 1942 at the age of 19 and served six years with the Navy Seabees, 107th Battalion, in the Marshall Islands of the South Pacific primarily the island of Tinian where he witnessed the delivery and transfer of Fat Boy. Jim married Evelyn Elizabeth Hespack on January 29, 1974 at the Lutheran Church in Newport, Oregon and celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary this year. Jim lived in Washington before moving to Lincoln City in 1971 where he worked in general carpentry before opening his business, Coastline Cabinets serving the commercial and residential community here and throughout the state. He was a Lifetime Member of the VFW. Other memberships included over 50 years with the Elks, 25 years with the Eagles, as a charter member of the North Lincoln County Historical Museum and a member of the Taft Pioneer Cemetery. Jim enjoyed woodworking, crafts and stained glass. He was well-known for his craftsmanship and contributed to a variety of organizations throughout Lincoln City. He was a caring hard-working man who enjoyed helping his extended family as well as working on projects to benefit the community. In addition to his wife, survivors include his daughters, Lynn Huntley of Prineville and Susan Phelps of Otis, his son James Phelps Jr. of Mexico, Evelyn's daughter Mary Jo Phelps of Otis, Nephews Mike Davis of Tygh Valley, and Tom Phelps of Portland and Niece Clydene Phelps of Portland. Jim is also survived by grandchildren Lorraine, James, Kaili, Jon, Talya, Joella and Siscilee and nine great grandchildren. Mr. Phelps was predeceased by his brothers who were also WWII Veterens, Huey, Walter (Bud) and Allan, and sister Orlena, and Evelyn's daughters Brenda and Darlene whom he was a father to, and grandson Shawn. There will be a private interment for Jim at the Taft Pioneer Cemetery. Remembrances can be made to the American Cancer Society. "A man is LOVED not for how tall he stands, but for how often he bends to help, comfort, and teach."

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James E Phelps

February 8, 1923 - May 11, 2019