Former long-time resident James Rinehart dies at 64

James Randolph Rinehart, 64, passed away April 23 after a prolonged illness in Yakima, Washington.

James' remains will be returned to his immediate family in Alaska and a memorial is planned for a future date. "His family appreciates all the kind words and memories shared about Jim. He will be missed by his family, friends and everyone who knew him. Many fond memories of Jim will remain with us," his family wrote.

James was born on Jan. 19, 1959, to Pauline and Harry Lloyd Rinehart. He worked for many years at City Market and many of the Wrangell seafood processors. He also worked at the pulp mill in Port Angeles, Washington, and in the Safeway store in Tacoma, Washington.

He was a long-time Wrangell resident. "He was a hard worker and known for his strength in whatever job he was working at. While working at City Market, he was known to be very kind and helpful to customers. He was well known for the smile on his face and his sense of humor that customers always appreciated. As a brother, he will be remembered for always checking in on how his brothers, sisters and nieces and nephews were doing. He was the first to welcome his family members home, and the last to say goodbye. He was a gentle soul and will be remembered by many that knew him," his family wrote.

James was Kaagwaantaan, descending from Klukwan.

James is preceded in death by his mother, Pauline Rinehart; father Lloyd Rinehart; brother Harry Rinehart; uncles Al Rinehart and Richard Rinehart; grandmother Mary Requina; aunts Winne Rinehart, Juanita Driscoll and Myrtle Bell Noble.

James is survived by his brothers: Albert Rinehart, of Juneau, and Robert Rinehart, of Ketchikan; sisters Jessie Archibald, of Juneau, June Rinehart, of Ketchikan, and Frances Rinehart, of Klawock.

"He was the loving uncle to many nieces and nephews."