James W. Kumpf

Kumpf, James (Jim) W. James (Jim) W. Kumpf, born August 22, 1929, Chicago, Il. , died September 7, 2010, Dallas, Tx. Jim was afflicted with Parkinson's for more than a decade. He is survived by wife Sandra Merlo, daughter, Julie Armstrong, son Richard, twin brother John from the Dallas area, twin sisters Susan Platou, Sara Bye, sister Mary Bloomquist who live in Minneapolis/St.Paul, and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by daughter Toni Diane. Jim attended the University of Minnesota, entering pilot training in 1950 graduating in the F-51. He flew the F-86 during the Korean War. Flying 100 missions, he was credited with the downing of a MIG-15. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with one silver and four oak leaf clusters along with a number of campaign and service medals. Jim flew a variety of jet fighter aircraft until age 50 and retired from the Arkansas Air National Guard as a Lieut. Colonel and a Squadron Commander. Jim came to Dallas in 1955 flying the DC-3 for Continental Air Lines. He then began a career in the radio and television business as a sales representative for several broadcasters. He started a successful dental and attorney referral business from which he retired. Jim belonged to a number of civic and social organizations including the Dallas Executives, The Turtle Creek Club serving as President for many years, and the Quiet Birdmen. Visitation will be at Sparkman Hillcrest Funeral Home on Friday, September 10th from 6 to 8 p.m. He will be buried in a private ceremony at the Dallas-Ft. Worth National Cemetery. A memorial service will be 3:00 p.m., Saturday, September 11th at Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church, 9800 Preston Rd. The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the wonderful caregivers at Hospice Plus, as well as the caring staff at the Bentley Manor Assisted Living Community.