James Kringler

“In loving memory of James M. Kringler, Nov. 23, 1943 to April 23, 2005.”  Jim was born in Fargo, N.D. He was raised in Brainard, Minn. and later moved to Washington State. After some time in the Seattle area, he moved to Whidbey Island in 1974.

Jim loved the outdoors. In his healthier days you could find him fishing, canoeing and hiking through the wooded trails. His gentle spirit was content with the simple things in life.

Jim’s appreciation for the outdoor life inspired many of his paintings that he brought to life on canvas. He loved the fine arts and painted many oils and watercolors that were displayed in local art shows over the years.

Jim’s passion not only included paintings but his love of writing as well. Family and friends alike have enjoyed his stories, a legacy he will leave with the people he cared about to enjoy for years to come. He deeply appreciated the works of Shakespeare and also was well versed in the major religions of the world.

Jim was an architectural draftsman and can account for hundreds of homes and businesses here in Oak Harbor and around the island and the Puget Sound area.

Jim is survived by his wife of 21 years, Judi Kringler; a sister, Valerie Grove of Lynnwood; his children, Kimberlee Hooker, Mich., Jim Torbergson of Nevada, and Kris Aune of Kentucky.  Also four beloved grandchildren and one great granddaughter. He was very close to several nieces and nephews and their families that live in the Puget Sound region.

Jim was a deeply spiritual man who loved the words of Christ and believed strongly that we live on after life in this world. His memory will never be forgotten and we will live on through his kind spirit and truly inspiring works of art.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends and our recollection of him will serve as a reminder to us of what an incredible person and artist he was. No one that is loved so much can ever be forgotten.