Jim Gorter

Jim Gorter passed away peacefully on Sunday August 27, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born March 26, 1934, in Montesano, WA to Bill and June Gorter. At an early age he moved to Harvard Illinois where Jim helped his dad on the farm. He served 2 years in the Army. In 1958 he met the love of his life Elaine Knutson. They were married on Dec 5, 1959. Jim started out being a dairy farmer but decided he liked the fieldwork better. He quit dairy farming and worked for Libby’s Cannery and Crop farmed. Later Jim and a friend started up a Sod Farm. After Sod Farming for many years, he retired and moved to Chehalis WA with his wife Elaine. He was a kind loving husband, and his joy was his family and friends. Jim was a hard worker and loved to be working in his large garden and wood working in his shop. He was a mentor and will be missed by many.

He is survived by his loving wife Elaine, Sons Dean (Debbie) Gorter of Marengo Illinois, Steve Gorter of Harvard Illinois, Five Grandchildren, 6 Great Grandchildren, 1 Great Great Grandson, and his sister Edna Fund. His brother-in-law Red Cunningham, sisters-in-laws Shirley Brehmer, Betty Knutson, Linda (Alan) Marr and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Bill and June Gorter, sister Joan Luerssen and brother Sam who died as an infant, brother in laws Roger (Anna) Knutson, Wally Knutson, Gene Knutson, Jim Hilderman Ed Brehmer and sister-in-law Idella Cunningham.

Memorial Services will be held at the Virgil Lee Community Building in Chehalis WA. on Thursday September 14th from 10:30-2:30 PM.

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