William "Jim" James Mann

August 13, 1923 - August 13, 2009

William "Jim" James Mann Obituary (Age 86) Longtime Spokane resident, W. James Mann, passed away quietly at home on his 86th birthday early Thursday morning, August 13th. His wife of 61 years, Marie, was at his side. Jim was born August 13, 1923 in Toronto, Canada to Fred and Margaret Mann. His father was from Northern Ireland and his mother was a Scot raised in Wales. Jim and Marie moved to Spokane in 1951, purchasing and running a pie shop for several years. This endeavor led him to purchase Northwest Bakery & Fountain Supply, where he met Stener Duous, who pursued him to work for him at Western Brands as quality control manager for their various bakery supplies. The Manns enjoyed traveling, especially cruising. Jim and Marie visited the Communist world in 1984, visiting both Russia and China. They traveled extensively in Europe, as well as Africa, Borneo, Australia, Ireland, Singapore, Peru, and circumnavigated South America. They also enjoyed camping and hiking at most of the National Parks in Western Canada and the U.S., with Banff being a favorite destination. Jim was a terrific father to his two sons, Bill and John, and enjoyed taking them fishing and hunting. Jim will be remembered by all who knew him for his wonderful sense of humor, his sparkling blue eyes, his firm belief in the Golden Rule, and his honesty. He was preceded in death by his sister Mary, brother Don and grandson Oliver. He is survived by his wife Marie, of Spokane; sons Bill (Sally), of Spokane, and John, of Seattle; grandsons Ryan, of Bangkok, Thailand, and Kyle, of Hawaii; and brother David (Frances) of Toronto. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Spokane.