James Allen Wilson was born November 17, 1931 in Topeka, Kansas to James Edward Wilson and Jennie Carnahan Wilson. One sister, Janice was born 11 months later. Their lives were born with lots of hardships due to the great depression of the 1930’s as so many others had, too.
James and Janice went to several grade schools in Kansas due to their father’s work changes. His father’s jobs were meat butcher and handyman while his mother was a homemaker.
His family moved to La Junta, Colorado during WW II in 1942. James attended Junior and Senior High schools in La Junta and graduated in 1949.
James joined the Boy Scouts in 1944 and went thru all ranks including Eagle Scout. He was a part of the Scout troop that studied Indian Lore called the Koshare Indians. This included earning all the required merit badges, making costumes and learning Indian dances.
James enlisted in the U.S. Navy in May 1950. The Korean War broke out and lasted until 1954. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Valley Forge aircraft carrier that gave air support to ground troops. His duties were deck hand for 6 months, then he was assigned to mess cook. For the remainder of his 4 year tour, he served in the main galley. James received the Good Conduct Medal several commendations for servicing in the combat areas. In addition, he received an Honorable Discharge in 1954 as 2nd Commissary man.
During a Liberty in 1952, James met his future wife, Gloria at a home party and after several months of correspondence, they were married June 29, 1953 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
James started working at Douglas Aircraft in May of 1954 in an electronic stockroom that led him to a position as an electronic technician after attending an electronic technical school for 2 years. Eight years later, he was moved to engineering support in testing for McDonnell Douglas and retired after 34 years of service under Boeing company.
After retirement, James and Gloria sold their home and moved to Las Vegas in 1993. A return to where it all began. Gloria and James had 3 beautiful children; son, Jessie born in January 1955; daughter, Vickie in December 1955; and daughter, Sheree in November 1957. Their family has grown into 10 grandchildren and several great – grandchildren.
James was preceded in death by his great love of 57 years, Gloria Sue Wilson; his parents; and sisters, Janice and Iverna.
