James Sines passed away after complications from long-standing health issues Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019, in Olympia, Wash. He was born in Centralia, Wash., Feb. 25, 1937, the son of Francis Sines and Margaret Logsdon. Orphaned along with his two siblings while young, James’ maternal aunt and uncle, Marion and Arena Skinner, raised him as part of their family in Centralia.
James graduated from Centralia High School in 1955, along with his future bride, Myrna Carey. He was a natural athlete, who excelled at football and baseball, earning varsity letters for three years in each sport. Following graduation, he attended and played varsity football for Centralia College.
After high school, James joined the United States Army National Guard and progressed through the ranks to sergeant. Upon completing his bachelors degree, he attended the U.S. Army Officer Candidate School (OCS), earning his reserve commission as a 2nd lieutenant. James trained as a tank commander and served his country until 1966, promoted to 1st lieutenant and captain.
Aug. 11, 1956, James married Myrna Carey in the First Christian Church of Centralia. Both graduated from Western Washington University in 1961, and began working for the Centralia School District. James taught mathematics first at Centralia Junior High, and then completed his career at Centralia High School. At CHS, James was well known and liked by hundreds of students for his inquisitive mind and trivia knowledge, jovial sense of humor and a kind, understanding demeanor. Working with his close friend and fellow teacher, Bob Drake to obtain technology grants, James was instrumental in introducing computer classes to Centralia High School in 1981. During his 30 year long career, James coached several high school sports including football, wrestling, bowling and golf. James coached the Centralia High School boys & girls golf teams for over 20 years, his 1985 boys team earning the WIAA State Golf Team Championship.
James loved cars and motorcycles from an early age, an interest gained through his uncle Marion. He continued to collect and enjoy both throughout his life. He enjoyed many motorcycle trips with his good friend, Lee Butkus. He also loved the water and captained his 32’ sailboat, Springbok, racing with the South Sound Sailing Society, winning his division’s title one season.
In retirement, James and Myrna loved seeing their grandchildren grow and attended scores of youth sporting events over a 20 year long span. They also enjoyed seeing the world and traveled for many years with good friends, Don and Lisa Grunenfelder and Gaylend and Karolyn Wilmovsky. For over 20 years, James and Myrna annually traveled to their favorite spot on Kauai.
James was preceded in death by his adoptive aunt and uncle, Arena and Marion Skinner; and brother, Marlon Sines.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Myrna Sines; son, Michael Sines (Stacy Grecian); daughter, Brenda Robinson; sister, Margo Hewitt; and grandchildren, Christian Sines, Kaylie Sines, Colin Sines, Gabrielle Robinson and Nick Grecian.
