James Walters

James A Walters Sr., 73, of Duluth, treasured husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle and friend, died unexpectedly on Friday, November 8, 2013, of natural causes while at the family hunting cabin.

Jim was born April 19, 1940, to Joseph and Nellie (Tram) Walters. Jim grew up in the Homecroft area graduating from Duluth Central High School in 1958. He served in the Army Reserve. Following in his father's footsteps, he joined the Duluth Plumber's and Pipefitter's Union (Local 11) in 1962. Jim became the Local 11 Business Agent in 1986 and Business Manager in 1989 until his retirement in December of 2001. He remained active by serving on various boards and committees.

Jim married the love of his life, Jean (Nettie), on June 19, 1970. Together they enjoyed many family adventures. Upon retirement, Jim and Jean traveled the southwest in their motor home. Each winter they traveled to southern Texas to spend the winter with many of their Bounder buddies.

Jim loved cars, especially old cars. He attended the Sunday night races with son, Jim Jr. and grandson, Max. He met many wonderful friends there, as well as at the annual Iola Car Show.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Vivian.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Jean, sister, Audrey Simmen, sons Jeff (Lori) Hoyum, Glenn (Julie) Hoyum, James (Joanna) Jr., daughters Debbie (Ken) Goossen, Wendy, Tammy, Jamie and Judy.

He is also survived by many grandchildren, including Courtney (Robert) Kile, Joel (Brooke) Carlson, and his buddies Joshua and Christian Hoyum, Max Walters, and great grandson, Sullivan James Kile; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the Gnesen First Responders, Sheriff Graves, Gold Cross Ambulance, the angel who stopped to assist, and Jim Jr. and Calvin Peterson for their efforts. The family would also like to thank the staff at St. Luke's ER.

Visitation: Family and friends may gather from 5-7pm Thursday, November 14, 2013 at Dougherty Funeral Home. Visitation will continue on Friday from 10 am until the 11 am memorial service at Hermantown Community Church, 4880 Maple Grove Rd. Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, 600 E. Second St., Duluth, 727-3555.