James was born Aug. 2, 1938, to Leonard and Maude Grade in Winner, SD. He was raised in Winner and was a proud member of the football, basketball, and track teams for the Winner Warriors High School. He graduated in 1956. After graduation, he attended the University of South Dakota. He returned to Winner to work at the local Ford dealership and met the love of his life, Donna Tideman. They were married on Sept. 11, 1960. He operated a pizza place called The Varsity in Vermillion, SD, where his children (Theresa, Brad, and Shari) were born. He wanted more for his family and decided to sell life insurance for Prairie States Life Insurance Company of Rapid City. He moved his family to Bismarck, ND, in 1971.
He bought the family home in 1976 at 1906 Assumption Dr. James “Jim” was a charismatic man who could disarm you with his smile. He was always friendly and outgoing, almost to a point of fault. Jim was a proud member of the United States Marine Corps and was fond of the Semper Fi (Always Faithful) motto. He struggled at times with addiction, but overcame it with perseverance and determination and obtained 17 years of sobriety. Jim enjoyed golfing, working outdoors, and spending time with his family.
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