Elwood Gerald Sims

Elwood was born at Bonners Ferry, Idaho, the fourth of five children born to Norwegian immigrants John Sims and Myrtle (Melby) Sims. He spent his early years at Parkland Lutheran Children's Home in Everett. Growing up in Eastport, Idaho, he attended school there and in Menomonie, Wisconsin, before coming to Spokane in 1936. A 1939 graduate of North Central High School, he lettered in track. He, his brothers and their father were ski-jumpers for the Kingsgate-Eastport Ski Club, competing in meets around the Northwest in the 1930s. He married Doris Meredith at First Baptist Church on February 18, 1940, and worked at Wards, Safeway, and Baxter Army Hospital before being drafted into the Army in May 1944. Serving in the 87th Mountain Infantry Regiment of the 10th Mountain Division, he was a forward scout, seeing combat in Northern Italy. He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal, European Theater Ribbon with two battle stars, and the Bronze Star Medal. After the war he worked for the US Post Office as a letter carrier, retiring in 1983. He took up golfing in his 50s, and was a long-time member of the Men's Club at Sundance Golf Course. An avid gardener, he grew cherry tomatoes and many other vegetables; when he moved to Lilac Plaza Retirement Apartments in 1997 he continued to maintain a small garden plot there. He was a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers, National Association of the 10th Mountain Division, and a Life Member of Sons of Norway. A Christian who lived life as a quiet example for others, he was a member of Central Baptist Church, where he served for many years on the board of trustees. He was loved and is missed by his wife, Doris; sons Larry (JoAnn), Mark (Vicki) and Jeff (Lorae); daughter Nancy Skelton; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends. His eldest brother, Irving Sims of Minneapolis, survives him. The family wishes to thank the staff at the Washington State Veterans Home for their kindness and care. A celebration of Elwood's life will be held at Central Baptist Church, W. 19 Shannon, Feb. 18 at 1 pm. Memorials in his name may be made to Central Baptist Church.