Gualala Arts Promoting public interest and participation in the arts since 1961
Gualala Arts has suffered a loss close to our hearts with the recent passing of Jim Grenwelge. We are honored to be able to join his family and friends in hosting a Celebration of Life for this most special individual.
The community at large is invited to gather in the Redwood Grove at the Gualala Arts Center, Sunday, June 5, at 1 p.m. to pay tribute and celebrate his renaissance spirit known far and wide. After the gathering in the Redwood Grove, guests will move to the Coleman Hall to view a video tribute. In true Jimmy style, attire will be informal and shorts are highly encouraged.
One of Jim’s dear friends captured their experience of him and has shared the following poem as a way of revealing the essence of this joyful man. We share it with you here in hopes it brings a smile to your heart.
IF YOU KNEW JIM…..
If you knew Jim, you know what the old adage of “if you want something done, ask a busy person” embodies – so very busy yet he never failed to lend a hand
If you knew Jim, you know how to revere Native American culture from water conservation to amazing jewelry
If you knew Jim, you know about his love of cars and how we found them irresistible as well, at the Car Show he founded at Gualala Arts
If you knew Jim, you know how food can bring us together especially if cooked outside and if flames are involved
If you knew Jim, you know how the love of the land can bring not just fruits and vegetables, but also lifelong satisfaction
If you knew Jim, you know art is important and imperative and can be embodied and enjoyed in many forms
If you knew Jim, you know that the bridge over the Gualala River does not divide us, it brings us together
If you knew Jim, you know what a fashion statement shorts, grey socks and a tee shirt are
If you knew Jim, you know what joy, laughter, kindness, hard work and service are
If you knew Jim, you know he never wanted to be the center of attention or the one receiving accolades for all of his contributions
If you knew Jim, you know you are all the better for it
– C.Coad