James Berkeley Walston

On Thursday, August 18, 2011, the Lord could wait no longer and James Berkeley Walston, 91, returned to his easel in the sky. Born March 31, 1920 in Sioux City, Iowa, to Cecil and Grace Walston, James joins his brothers Milton and Oliver Walston, sister Agnes Stusse, daughter Janet Carol, and son Freddie Wayne in Heaven. When James wasn't ensuring mice-free kernels at Jolly Time Popcorn Company, he was illustrating his Senior Annual at Sioux City's Central High School. Shortly after graduating in 1938, James married LaVerne, embarking on the best journey of his life: 70 years of marriage. Along the way, James, a Seaman First Class, served on the USS Kershaw 176 in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. While on board, he was a champion Golden Glove boxer in the welterweight division. James worked as a draftsman for both Sioux Tools in Sioux City, Iowa and Beachcraft in Wichita, Kansas before being recruited by Sandia National Laboratories as a Graphic Designer. In December, 1956, James moved with LaVerne, and his daughters Bonnie Lou and Patricia Anne, to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Come rain or shine James was often seen driving his 1964 Karmann Ghia convertible around town, wearing his silver-banded hat and characteristic handlebar mustache. Whether streaking at family get-togethers, falling out of his chair laughing, singing with the player piano, or playing practical jokes on just about everyone, James brought witty enthusiasm, humor, and steadfast allegiance to all he encountered. Among those blessed to honor his memory include his wife LaVerne Walston; his brother Doug Walston; his daughter Bonnie Stewart, her husband Fred, and her children Robert and Ryan Miziker; his daughter Patricia Lewis, her husband Michael, and their children Dena Maddox, Shane, Christina and Jonathan Lewis; and his great grandchildren Campbell, Broderick, Mazzy, Twila, and Berkeley. Although slight in stature, he was known for his vast creativity, talent, loyalty, faith, and heart. Many called him James Berkeley, Jim, Daddy, Papa, Grandpa, Scotty, Tiger, Jimbo, Jimmy, and friend. No matter the name, the legacy of James Berkeley Walston will continue on a high note. Friends may visit French ~ Wyoming Chapel on Tuesday, August 23, 2011, 5:00-7:00 pm. Services will be held on Wednesday, August 24, 2011 at 2:00 pm also at French ~ Wyoming Chapel. Services will also be held at Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel, 6200, Morningside Ave, Sioux City, IA on Saturday, August 27, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, 6605 Morningside Ave, Sioux City, IA. Should friends desire memorial contributions can be made to Salvation Army, 4301 Bryn Mawr Dr. NE, 87107.