James A. Ingram of Lakewood, Washington, and former resident of Aberdeen, Washington, died peacefully on July 22, 2019, at the age of 90.

Born on Jan. 6, 1929, in Aberdeen, Washington, he attended Aberdeen Weatherwax High School, Class of 1947. He received a degree in economics from the University of Washington in 1951, and was a member of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, where over the years he continued many friendships.

Jim served in the U.S. Navy from 1951-1955, as an officer and fighter jet pilot based in Alameda, California. He served two eight-month tours. First tour on the USS Yorktown deployed to Korea and second on the USS Essex also deployed to Korea. Jim was one of seven pilots flying the Grumman P9-Panther, Fighter Jet, Straight Wing. This jet was the U.S. Navy’s first successful aircraft carrier fighter jet.

Jim married Marjorie Cronkhite of Seattle on Dec. 27, 1952. After the Navy they lived in Aberdeen, Washington, where Jim was co-owner and operated E.C. Miller Cedar Lumber Company in Cosmopolis, Washington, until it was sold in 1984. He was president and operated Diamond Hardwood Mill, Aberdeen, Washington. In 1984, Jim and Marge moved to Lakewood, Washington, where Jim operated Pax Port Mills in Tacoma, Washington, until he retired. They enjoyed many years of friendships through the Tacoma Country and Golf Club in Lakewood, Washington.

Jim’s love for flying continued after the Navy as a private pilot and owner of several airplanes. He also loved snow skiing, tennis, football particularly the U of W Huskies and the Seattle Seahawks. Jim spent every summer, beginning in childhood, on Hood Canal where he loved the water and the beach and had a lifetime of enjoyment with his family and friends.

Jim is survived by his wife of 67 years, Marjorie, and daughters, Jane Ingram Hager of Kirkland, Washington, and Susan Ingram Slivka of Anchorage, Alaska, and grandchildren: Todd Hager, Kelsey Hager, David Slivka and Mark Slivka. Jim is preceded in death by his brothers, Robert Ingram Jr. of Palm Desert and Ernie Ingram of Aberdeen.

Jim lived a full life. He was friendly, sensitive and generous and dearly loved by his family and friends. We will remember his laughter and great enthusiasm for life. A celebration of life will be held at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club, Lakewood, Washington, on Sept. 15, 2019 at 2 p.m. Contributions in memory of James A. Ingram can be made to the American Cancer Society or charities of your choice.