James (Jim, King James) F. Ellstrom, age 85, passed away at Wesley Enhanced Living on December 17, 2023. This was the result of several strokes over the past few years.
Jim began his working career at the Sun Telegraph, a Pittsburgh, PA newspaper. By the end of 1957 Jim had relocated to Philadelphia, PA and was employed in the advertising department of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
1960 found Jim working at Furness Shipping and Cruise Line in New York City. This was when Jim first fell in love with travel. “Away We Go,” was Jim’s first travel agency and he opened it in 1967 on Long Island in New York. By 1975 Jim had opened another travel firm back in New York City. This one was located on the 99th floor of the World Trade Center and he was there for 10 years before relocating to Nassau Steet in NYC.
At the same time Jim was managing his travel agency he was also studying at the Institute of Certified Travel Agents. He received his Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) certificate in 1981.
His love of travel took Jim to six of the seven continents in the world. One of his favorite trips was his speedy flight on the Concord in 1978, New York to London in less than three hours.
After selling his travel agency at age 55, Jim retired to his home in Bucks County. He needed to be busy and stay close to the travel business, so he worked at a friend’s travel agency part time in New Hope, PA.
In his spare time Jim was an avid Impressionist painter. He mostly painted scenes that were ‘en plein air’ (in open air). His landscapes were ones he actually visited and painted right there. Jim also enjoyed and found relaxation in gardening.
As an Elder in his church and member of the Consistory, Jim was a very active participant, supporting the church in fund raisers and many activities.
Always a true gentleman, Jim was well known for his courteous manners and generous nature. In the last years of his life Jim enjoyed the friendly staff at Wesley, where he participated in many of their activities with his new friends.
Jim is survived by his sister Margaret (Margie) A. Ellstrom of Pittsburgh, PA. He is also survived by several cousins and many, many friends. Jim was preceded in death by his life partner of 55 years, John W. Hulbert, and his parents, Oscar and Cecilia Ellstrom Jr.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 27, 2024 at Tinicum United Church of Christ, 310 E. Dark Hollow Road, Pipersville, PA 18947 following visitation at 10:00 a.m. Jim’s ashes will be buried privately. Memorial donations may be sent to Tinicum United Church of Christ at the above address.
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