James S. Scott

James S. Scott was born in Los Angeles in 1928.

He left home at the age of 17 and ventured north to Alaska, where he worked in the logging, surveying, mining, road construction and fishing industries for well over 30 years. During that time he also designed several homes and commercial buildings, attained a twin-engine pilot’s license and designed, built and operated a commercial fishing boat.

He spent four years in the Navy during the Korean conflict, at which time he married Betty Harris, a coal miner’s daughter. They settled in the Matanuska Valley where daughters Lana, Wendy and Glennie were born, later followed by a son, Jim.

In 1974, he took Betty and the three younger children to a small island in East Malaysia off the coast of Borneo, where he worked with an offshore oil development company. After a short time overseas, he returned to Alaska and learned more about boat design.

In 1977, James and Betty moved to the Puget Sound area, where he worked for many of the Seattle-area naval architecture firms and developed a reputation for hull design. After a few years at this he started a small company and designed and built his own line of commercial fishing boats for the Alaska market.

In 2000, he retired from full-time work, built a large shop and found enjoyment in cabinet making and Bible study. He touched many lives with his unique, self-styled character. He also provided a wonderful example of uncompromising integrity and faith.

He is survived by his three daughters and son.

He died peacefully in his sleep early Tuesday morning, April 5, 2011, just 20 days after his 83rd birthday.