James Wesley Wolfe

Obituary James Wesley Wolfe Jim Wolfe quietly passed away on Saturday, June 28, at 2:35 pm with his family by his side. Jim was born on his family's farm near Gibbon, Nebraska, on December 22, 1930. He graduated from Stadium High School in 1949, and in 1974 he earned his formal banking certification from the Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington. In 1950, Jim enlisted with the United States Marine Corps and attended boot camp at Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, CA. He proudly served on the USS Essex during the Korean War, earning multiple medals and military accolades. In 1952, Jim married the love of his life, Molly Diane Coy who he went to school with since 1st grade at Franklin Elementary in Tacoma, WA. After completing his time in the USMC, Jim began his career in Banking. Throughout his time in the financial industry, Jim worked for various well-known banks becoming Vice President and serving on many community boards. During his banking career, Jim spent additional time becoming a coin (numismatic) and stamp expert. In 1985, Jim left the banking industry and returned to his love of coins. He bought and owned Tacoma Stamp and Coin Shop in downtown Tacoma until his retirement in 2001. Outside of his professional life, Jim was a dedicated grandfather, passionate golfer and sports enthusiast. Golfing was a huge part of his life, serving as Fircrest Golf Club - Club President in 1980-1981 and an active member at Highlands Public Nine as well as the Veteran's Public golf course in Lakewood, WA where he volunteered much of his time. He hit a lifetime 9 holes-in one! He loved his home of 55 years in University Place and was a dedicated volunteer and fan of various Curtis High School sporting events. Jim is survived by his wife of 62 years, Molly; and his three kids: daughter, Diane (Gary) Kaplowitz of Orinda, CA; son, Jim D. Wolfe (Chris Pajak) of Wilton Manors, FL; and son, Bill Wolfe of University Place, WA. He has 4 grandchildren, Caleb Kaplowitz, Bethany (Ryan) Newberry, Joshua and Sarah Kaplowitz; and more than 30 nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his beloved father and mother, Gerald and Mary Wolfe. The family would like to thank Franciscan Hospice for their thoughtful care and support. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund has been set up for a Curtis High School 2014-2015 Senior scholar/athlete (both male and female). Please send your donation to: CHS UPCF athletic Scholarship in memoriam of Jim Wolfe, 3717 Grandview Dr. W., University Place, WA 98466. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 25, 2014 at 3:00pm at Praise Covenant Church, 3501 S. Orchard St. Tacoma, WA 98466 followed by a reception. Jim's interment with USMC honors will take place the following week at New Tacoma Cemetery. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.