James F. McPherson

James F. McPherson, age 83, of Gladstone, passed away Monday, October 11, 2021 at OSF St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba. He was born on August 12, 1938 in Gladstone, the son of Bert and Helen (Latimer) McPherson. James spent almost his entire life in Gladstone and was a deeply connected member of the community. He grew up along with his sister, Linn, and brothers, Dave and Tom, on the east side of town. After marrying the former Lois Anderson on October 21, 1961, the young couple moved to Chicago to earn money and pursue Lois’ education. They welcomed their sons, Matt and Bill. James and Lois missed their hometown and moved back to Gladstone to raise their family.

Jim and Lois worked at a variety of jobs while keeping a stable and loving home on Dakota Avenue. The boys graduated from Gladstone High School and left home to pursue careers in the military and engineering. After 52 years of marriage, Lois passed away in 2014. Jim remained a familiar sight around town, keeping busy with yardwork in the neighborhood, helping the Commodities Program at the Community Action Agency, and socializing around town with everyone from children to seniors. Jim was a member of First Lutheran Church in Gladstone.

James F. McPherson is survived by his sons, Matthew (Marie) McPherson of Davis, CA, and William McPherson of Appleton, WI; 3 grandchildren, Steven McPherson, Amanda McPherson, and Samuel McPherson; brother, Thomas McPherson of Sheboygan Falls, WI; sister, Linn (Larry) Shimek of Sebring, FL; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, James was preceded in death by his brother, David McPherson; and daughter-in-law, Mary (Moulds) McPherson.

Visitation will be held from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Friday, October 22, 2021 at the Anderson Funeral Home in Gladstone. Funeral services celebrating the life of Jim will follow at 2:30 p.m., Friday, with Rev. Elisabeth Daniels officiating. Burial will take place at the conclusion of the services in Fernwood Cemetery. 

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