James Donfris

James Donfris, 90, of Duluth, MN, died peacefully on October 30, 2017.  He was born on July 2, 1927 in Duluth, the son of Joseph and Mary Donfris.  As a young man he traveled the world with the Merchant Marines.  He later served our country in the US Army and was honorably discharged at the end of World War II.  As a proud veteran, in May 2016, he traveled to Washington DC on the veteran's "Honor Flight," which was a dream fulfilled.  After returning from the war he began a long career with US Steel working at the Morgan Park plant. Being with family, watching the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, and playing a good card game of "Smear" brought him great joy.  He was a member of St. James Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by parents and sister, Marianna. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Corrine; children, Don (Brenda) of Indio, CA, Barbara (Arthur Jr) Didrikson of Eden Prairie, MN, and Michael (Michelle) of Southlake, TX; grandchildren, Paul, Jason, Zachary, Carissa, Nicholas, Jacob; five great-grandchildren; sisters Louise Johnson, Lucille (Dolly) Meier, and nieces and nephews.  A special thank you to the staff of Essentia Health Medical ICU and Palliative Care at St. Mary's Hospital and the staff and residents of Keystone Bluffs assisted living.  Mass of Christian burial will be 11AM, Thursday, November 9, 2017 with visitation one-hour prior in the St. James Catholic Church, 715 N 57th Ave W, Duluth, MN 55807. Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, 218-727-3555