James Joseph Nelson

James Joseph Nelson of Whidbey Island, Washington passed peacefully in his sleep on Oct. 31, 2022, in Everett, Washington at the age of 79.

Jim is survived by his wife Linda; daughter Heidi (Don) Sherman; son Christopher Nelson; stepsons Eric Dufur and Alan Dufur Petrick; grandchildren Shelby Nelson, Elizabeth Dufur, Andrew Dufur and Kylie Sherman; brother Mike Nelson and sister Mary (Dick) Niemeyer, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Jim was greeted in heaven by his father OT, mother Dawn Ann, brother Rex and sister-in-law Karen Nelson.

Jim graduated from Moses Lake High School, attended Big Bend Community College, proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, and was a combat veteran, Vietnam. He worked in the construction industry for over 30 years and was a true artist for most of his life. In 1987 he began painting professionally and had his first professional art show at the Eagle Eye Gallery in Seattle, Washington. From there he shared his many talents with galleries across the United States as well as abroad. Jim became an international artist of record when his work was accepted and shown at the Tate Museum in London, England. His work has touched the lives of many and he has been honored by the galleries and collectors that believed and supported him throughout the years.

Jim was a member of the Marine Corps League Detachment No. 1451, South Whidbey Island, and was a one-of-a-kind warrior with a strong will for life, the kindest heart and a loving soul. He enjoyed hot rods, football and the ocean and had a real passion for his painting. He was a brilliantly talented artist and a fierce United States Marine.

Jim loved his family and he was loved by all. He was a mentor to many and the best son, sibling, husband, father, uncle and friend anyone could ask for.