James Wolan

James David Wolan, better known as Jim, passed away peacefully on July 20th, 2026. He was born on April 4th, 1951, in Niskayuna, New York to his parents Jean and Theodore.

With his father being a US Marine Sargeant, Jim was able to visit a number of states. He attended elementary school in Hawaii, where he attempted to climb palm trees and discovered his passion for surfing. Most of his life was spent in North County San Diego. He held an Associate of Arts degree from MiraCosta College in Oceanside, California. He raised two children as a single father while often working six days a week. Most of his free time was spent at local beaches with his children, where they built sandcastles, ate Aneglo's burgers, and fished off the Oceanside pier. He spent his final years in Poulsbo Washington with his family.

Jim was witty, intelligent, kind, chivalrous, and hilarious. A stonemason by trade, he was also blessed to delve into his artwork once he retired. His mediums were watercolor painting and limestone raised relief. He also provided care for his grandchildren when they weren't in school, and they loved their "Jampaw/Grandpappy" very much.

He was infamous for telling jokes, some of which he wrote himself. His favorites were jokes in Spanish, which he spoke fluently. No receptionist or telemarketer was exempt from hearing his jokes.

He was a devoted parishioner of St. Olaf Catholic Church, Prince of Peace Abbey, and Mission San Luis Rey. He took great pride in being his grandchildren's Godfather during their catechism journey.

Many people loved Jim, including his family, lifelong friends, congregation members, neighbors, and essentially everyone he crossed paths with. His life was a beautiful testament to love, art, humor, patriotism, perseverance, and faith.

Jim is survived by his children, Savanna Wolan and Dustin Wolan, his son-in-law Bryson Wood, sister Christine Finch, niece Serena Finch, and his grandchildren Todd and Juliette.

A memorial mass will be held on September 11th, 2026 at 11am at St. Peter Mission in Suquamish Washington.