James "Jim" Howard Huonder

James’ childhood was spent on the East Side of St. Paul in the Dayton’s Bluff area where he spent many summer days climbing the bluffs with neighborhood friends. He attended Sacred Heart through eighth grade and Hill for his freshman year before transferring to Harding High School. He left Harding in his senior year before graduating to join the Navy but was determined once his tour was done to obtain his high school diploma – which he did. From there he would go on to study and graduate from St. Paul Vocational Tech with a degree in Architectural Drafting and Design.

Upon graduation he worked as a draftsman for Ellerbe Architects before changing his career path to that of direct sales with a focus on selling mortgages. Perhaps, though, his most fulfilling (albeit most challenging) work experience was the two years he spent as a driver’s ed instructor with A+ Driving School in White Bear Lake.

Jim was an avid sailor, sailing competitively locally with the Black Bear Yacht Club on White Bear Lake and big water sailing recreationally in the Apostle Islands of Lake Superior. On land, he enjoyed playing cards with friends, dancing and taking short day trips with his wife.

His love of family was second to none. His love of God and country next; he had the greatest respect for our military and the men and women of blue and would stand for the flag as the National Anthem was played even while watching the Super Bowl or any other sporting event in the privacy of his home.

James "Jim" Howard Huonder was born October 20, 1945 and passed away on April 13, 2024 at the age of 78 years. He was preceded in death by his parents Bernard & Leilah Huonder. Jim is survived by his wife Mary Jo Wiseman; son Travis Huonder (Amber); grandsons Andrew Riley, Dalton Huonder & Christian Huonder (Emily); siblings Kenneth Huonder (Penny), John Huonder (Beth) & Nancy Hickman (Wesley); Mary Jo's son Brian Wiseman (Lisa Lewandowski); Mary Jo's grandchildren Rebecca Wiseman & Kristian Casey; many nieces, nephews, other relatives & friends. Celebration of Life Thursday, April 25th from 4:00- 7:00 pm at MUELLER MEMORIAL, 4738 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake. Private interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the family.