James Polk Nieukirk Ii

passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2014 at his home on Bainbridge Island, Washington. He was born on June 27, 1919 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and was 94 years of age.James was trained in flying by the University of Pennsylvania and the U.S. Navy as soon as WWII broke out.. He was trained for frontline fighter planes and flew almost every plane the Navy had at that time. His love for flying led him, with other Navy friends, to start an airline. They changed aviation history by establishing "coach" service.His days off were filled with sailboat racing in which he won many trophies. Jim loved adventure and traveling but what he loved most was his family. He remained "young at heart" until his 90's. He was a man of integrity and good character. He was faithful to his family and all he loved. He loved everyone. He had a very caring and thankful heart. He trusted Jesus with everything during these last difficult years and found Him to be faithful and true. We will miss him very much.Jim is survived by his daughter Virginia Nieukirk van der Steur of Kansas City, Missouri, son Michael James Wells of Dallas, Texas, daughter Susan Jeanne Stuart of St. Louis, Missouri and son Eric Leonhardt of Bellingham, Washington. There are six grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by his wives: Martha Taylor Nieukirk, Ferne Bothwell Nieukirk and Judy Kay Nieukirk.Memorial contributions can be made to: Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, North Carolina 28201, USA. (Memo on check: For My Hope America). http://www.billygraham.org or to Samaritan's Purse (Help for the poor and needy), P.O. Box 3000, Boone, North Carolina 28607, USA, http://www.samaritanpurse.org. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend the Memorial Service on Saturday, January 25, 2014 at 1:00 PM at Island Church, 9624 Sportsman Club Road NE on Bainbridge Island. Interment will follow at Kane Cemetery on Bainbridge.Arrangements entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home.