James Gregoire

James R. Gregoire was born on January 12, 1929, in Marshall, MN to Harry and Anita (Marcotte) Gregoire. He grew up and attended St. Joseph Academy in Marshall and graduated from Marshall High School. He graduated from the Minnesota School of Business, then was activated to duty in the U.S. Army National Guard during the Korean Conflict, from 1950-1952. On October 7, 1950, he and Vivian Lanners were married at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Marshall. After discharge from the National Guard, he started his 39-year career at the Simons & Gregoire Insurance Agency, first working with his father and then as an owner. In 1991, he sold Simons & Gregoire Insurance to Wells Fargo and worked there until retirement in 1998. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and served in the offices of Financial Secretary and Grand Knight of the Third Degree Knights, and Faithful Navigator of the Fourth Degree Knights. He was active with Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, where he was a long-time Resurrection Choir member, served as Eucharistic Minister and was a past president of the parish council. For 27 years, he served on the Board of Trustees for the Norwegian Mutual Fire Insurance Company. He was also a member of the Lions Club, Minute Men and American Legion Post #113 and volunteered with Meals on Wheels. He was an avid golfer and sports fan, devoted to the Minnesota Vikings and Twins, and loved a good game of cards. During 14 years as a lake cabin owner in the Battle Lake area, he enjoyed fishing, waterskiing and golfing with family and friends. Jim had a deep respect for life and a strong faith in God. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, he taught his children love, sharing, patience and tolerance. With his gentle heart, humility and easy-going sense of humor, he listened to people and was always there when he was needed. Jim died on Tuesday, July 7, 2009, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD, after a two year struggle with cancer and heart disease. Jim is survived by his loving wife Vivian of 58 years, daughter Suzanne (Richard) Moriarity of Bloomington, MN, sons John (Joan) of Mendota Heights, MN, and Paul of Plymouth, MN, daughter Jane (Dan) Youngberg of Alexandria, VA; six grandchildren, Michael, Matthew, Robert, Elizabeth, Jack and Rachel; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, brother Harold and sister Arlaine. May he rest in peace. Memorials are preferred to donors choice.