Jim Rice Memorial Scholarship

The Jim Rice Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior going to vocational school or college who manifests good citizenship in school, self-reliance and positive character.
Jim Rice served as mayor of Anacortes from 1982 until his death in 1991.Originally from Hatton, North Dakota, Jim moved to Seattle shortly after his high school graduation and was promptly drafted into the U.S. Army during W.W.II. Jim was stationed in Seward, Alaska with the Corps of Engineers. It was in Seward that Jim met his future wife Margie, a former Anacortes resident. When the war was over, the young couple decided to make their home in Seattle where Jim studied the marine carpentry trade at Edison Technical School. Jim worked in Seattle for several years as a journeyman carpenter, and was eventually hired by Don McKee, a Seattle architect and Anacortes High School classmate of Margie's. When Mr. McKee returned to Anacortes, the Rice family followed. Jim eventually started his own general contracting business and built many of the homes and commercial buildings in Anacortes. It was during the mid-1950's that Jim launched his political career when he was elected to fill a vacant city council seat. Throughout his nearly 40 years in politics, Mr. Rice served the citizens of Anacortes unselfishly. Jim is remembered for his integrity and dedication to honesty while in office. Throughout his life, Jim's Christian faith sustained him. He was a lifelong member of the Lutheran Church. Jim was a compassionate man who performed many humanitarian deeds, often known only to his family. On several occasions, for instance, he quietly paid property taxes or bought groceries for Anacortes citizens who needed some extra help. Jim and Margie Rice understood the importance of education and were ardent supporters of the Anacortes schools. All four of their children graduated from Anacortes High School. Jim was an active member of the Anacortes Elks, Eagles, Rotary and the VFW. Mr. Rice passed away in 1991, and Margie established this scholarship fund in his honor. It is awarded to a graduating senior going to vocational school or college who manifests good citizenship in school, self-reliance and positive character. Special consideration may be given to a student who has regularly worked hard in school who may have had serious difficulty and have made a positive change during high school.