James M. Gribbon

Obituary James M. Gribbon 1922-2013 Jim Gribbon "Grib", passed away on December 5th, 2013 at the age of 91. He was born in New York in 1922, the son of James and Mary. He attended school in New York and joined the Army at the onset of WW II. He became the youngest 1st Sergeant in the Army at the time. While stationed at Fort Lewis he met his bride, the former Marilyn L McNeil. Jim and Marilyn were married on November 22, 1945 and Marilyn immediately became "Gribbie". The newlyweds settled in Tacoma rather than Jim returning to New York. They have been married for more than 68 years. Jim worked 33 years at Puget Sound National Bank, retiring as Executive Vice-President and Head Commercial Loan Officer. An avid golfer, Jim was formerly a member of Fircrest Golf Club, where he played regularly until health reasons forced him to quit. He was also a founding member of The Allenmore Medical Foundation, associated with American Legion, Elks Club and a member of Holy Cross Parish. Grib and Gribbie loved to travel, cruise and snowbird at various places in Tucson but always returned home to Tacoma to be with family. When they were unable to handle the rigors of travel, they remained in Tacoma doting on their grandchildren. Grib is survived by Gribbie, Marilyn, his loving wife of 68 years; his sister Beatrice of New York; son, Richard and wife Suphakarn, son, David. He was "Poppy" to grand-children, James, Kathleen, Michael, Justin, KaiRieka, Kelli, Kasper and wife Alecia; 2 great-grandchildren Kynlee and Owen in addition to his extended family in New York and on the east coast. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mary; brothers, Edwin and Thomas. There's not enough anyone can say about Jim. He was so patient, gracious, forgiving and generous, almost to a fault, and he remained so through the late stages of his life until dementia stole his individuality. A memorial Mass will be held in Jim's honor at Holy Cross Church in Tacoma on Wednesday December 11th at noon, with a small reception to follow. Internment will be at Tahoma National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests any remembrance be made to Alzheimer's Foundation, American Diabetes Association or Disabled American Veterans.