Donald "Jim" James Gress Obituary (2026)

Donald James “Jim” Gress was born November 15, 1948, in Yakima, Washington. He was raised in Yakima and attended Eisenhower High School, where he met the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Patricia “Patti” Rine. On December 28, 1968, Jim and Patti were married, beginning a beautiful life together that would span nearly 58 years. Shortly after their marriage, Jim proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Jim and Patti spent four years stationed in Altus, Oklahoma, where Jim served and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Following his honorable discharge, they returned home to Yakima, Washington, where they would build their life and raise their family. Jim went on to serve his community for many years as a United States Postal Service letter carrier, eventually retiring after a long and dedicated career. Jim and Patti were blessed with two sons, Craig and Kerry, and over the years their family grew to include daughters-in-law and five grandchildren. Craig and his wife, Julie Gress, live in Cave Creek, Arizona with Craig’s children, Kaelyn (21), Tyler (19), and Aubrey (17) (children of Melissa Gress). Kerry and his wife, Mary Gress, live in Mercer Island, Washington, with their daughters, Emilia (8) and Capri (4). Above everything else in Jim’s life was his love for Patti, his family, and his relationship with God. His family was his greatest joy and the center of his world. Jim’s second great love was the outdoors, a place he affectionately called “God’s Country.” He was happiest surrounded by nature, whether he was fishing, hunting, boating, camping, or spending time at the beach. For Jim, these weren’t simply hobbies but were opportunities to spend time with the people he loved, make memories, and appreciate the beauty God created. Jim also had a passion for woodworking and enjoyed turning bowls as gifts to his family and loved ones. Jim leaves behind a lifetime of stories, friendships, adventures, and memories that will continue through Patti, his children, his grandchildren, and the countless people whose lives were made better simply because they had the opportunity to know him. His family will remember the hunts, the fishing trips, the days on the water, the camping trips, the trips to the beach, the conversations, the laughter, and all those moments shared together. While Jim will be deeply missed, the lessons he taught, the friendships he made, and the love he gave his family will live on for generations. Forever loved. Forever missed. Never forgotten. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.