James R. Unger, 88, of the Como Park area, died June 4, 2016, after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.
Jim was a proud graduate of St. John’s Prep, served in the Navy in World War II and went on to work as a plumber for St. Paul Parks and Recreation for 35 years. Above all he was a faith-filled man. He valued education for himself and his children. He was a dedicated volunteer, serving in hospice (20 years), as a coach, Befriender, ESL tutor, at Dorothy Day, Lyngblomsten and Habitat for Humanity.
He was preceded in death by his brother Bill and the love of his life, Carol. He is survived by his children: Nancy (Louie) Grams, James G. Unger, Becky Unger, Debra (Charlie) Fastner, Teri (Paul) Demore, Mary Jule (Steve) Erickson, Dennis (Sue) and Christopher (Kelly); 19 grandchildren; 15 greatgrandchildren; sister, Mary (Richard) Hoffman; and sisters-in-law, Joanne (Dodie) Lytle and Charlotte (Shocky) Isaacs.
Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated June 11 at the Church of St. Cecilia. The family expresses special thanks to the caring staffs at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Pillars Hospice, and to James’s “fifth daughter,” Colleen Kroona.
