On April 2nd 2020, James Cieslinski Jr. passed away due to complications from late-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
James Cieslinski, Jr. was deeply devoted to friends and family and was one of the kindest, funniest people to grace this Earth.
Jim was born to Maxine and James Cieslinski in 1948 and grew up in Portland, Oregon. He attended Jesuit High School, the University of Oregon, and the University of Portland. A talented salesman, he worked with his father and brothers at C2F Inc., where he pioneered the ProArt brand with his brother Tom, gained a Guinness World Record for the Connoisseur .007 paintbrush, and acquired and revitalized the Bee Paper Company brand. He will be fondly remembered around the world by those he befriended in the course of his work.
Outside of work and family, Jim’s great passions were hunting, fishing, and enjoying the great outdoors. An avid sportsman, he traveled the world as much as he was able, collecting turkeys every spring, deer and elk every fall, and fish year-round. Throughout his life he treasured the memories he made on these journeys and the companions he befriended through them.
A man of deep integrity, Jim was a strong believer in doing good by supporting charitable organizations. In addition to his continued support of Gleanings for the Hungry, a particular favorite of his was Childfund International, through which he supported six different children born into poverty in Africa and southeast Asia from the age of six to adulthood. In lieu of flowers, we ask you to give to Childfund or one of the other nonprofit organizations and causes he supported, including the American Cancer Society and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.
Jim leaves behind his wife of 41 years, Sarah, and their two sons Zach and Sam, and their partners, Ashley and Kari. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Aly and Ina.
While we miss Jim dearly, we'd like to take the opportunity to reflect with all of you on the happy times he brought to us. Please feel free to register an account and upload any memories you have. Thank you.