James L. Bigelow

May 11, 1942 – January 30, 2023

On Monday, January 30, 2023, at his home in North Bend, Oregon, Rev. James L. Bigelow, a faithful servant of God, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed from this life to his reward. He was 80 years old.

James was born to Ralph and Elda Bigelow on May 11, 1942, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. As a young man, Sgt. Bigelow served honorably in the U.S. Air Force, intercepting and decrypting Soviet communications ( 1964-1967 ). He married his sweetheart, Wanda Messing, in Marshfield, Wisconsin in 1969. James Bigelow attended Conquerors Bible College ( 1969 – 1972 ). Rev. Bigelow began his life of ministry as a pastor in 1972 and retired in 2017.

James is survived by his wife, Wanda; their children David (Lyenna), Stephen ( Courtney ), Sherilyn ( Rick ), Michael (Roxann), and Brenda ( Scott ); 16 grandchildren; and 1 great-grandson. He is also survived by siblings Ruth, Grace ( Dennis ), Art, Betty, and Sharon ( Tim ).

James was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Elda; brothers Gary, Ronnie, Robert and Russell; and sister, Lois.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Landmark Church, 777 Florida Avenue in North Bend, on Saturday, February 18th at 12:30 p.m. A graveside service with full military honors will be held at Sunset Memorial Park, 63060 Millington Frontage Road in Coos Bay at 2:30 p.m. A meal will be provided at Landmark Church following the graveside service. A public visitation will be held at the North Bend Chapel on Friday, February 17th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Flowers may be sent to the North Bend Chapel. Friends and family are encouraged to sign the online guestbook at www.coosbayareafunerals.com. Arrangements are under the care of North Bend Chapel, 541-756-0440.

To share a memory or send a condolence gift, please visit the Official Obituary of James LeRoy Bigelow hosted by Coos Bay Chapel.