James Pananen Obituary
He was drafted into the Army in 1965 and served as a Generator Instructor. Following his discharge, he worked as a chemist at U.S.S. Steel in Morgan Park, Minn. He attended WITC in Superior, Wis., and graduated in 1973 with a degree in Fabricating and Welding. He worked in multiple shops in the Twin Ports area as a foreman and fitter/welder.
Jim had a joy for living and could find humor in almost anything. He was even known to laugh in his sleep and slap his knee. His family and friends lovingly knew him as Jimmy, the boy who never grew up. He was extremely talented and was a skilled woodworker, painter, and gardener.
Jim's four granddaughters were his pride and joy. He was 100 percent Finn and was very proud of his Finnish heritage. He was also an avid Laurel and Hardy fan and enjoyed watching SpongeBob. He was the best father a girl could ask for.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Dorothy; daughter, Sarah (Joel) Gotelaere; granddaughters, Millie, Parys, Ruby and Daisy Gotelaere; sisters, Delores Pananen, Arlene (Arne) Franzen, Donna (Roger) Pearson, and Linda (Lowell) Schultz; brothers, Erland (Loretta), Clifford (Jackie), Albert and Donald; many nieces and nephews; much extended family and his beloved dogs, Hobbes and Louie and his cats, Smitty and Walter.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Jennie; and two sisters, Helen and Carol.
Per Jim's request, there will be no memorial service.
"A great man is he who does not lose his child's heart." Mencius
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Julia Pananen Barnes
July 30, 2025
Miss you, Jimmy.
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Kevin Smiht
August 7, 2017
Jim, you will be missed. Sarah, a beautiful tribute to your dad. Our prayers to your mom and your family.
Brittany and Aaron Cole
August 3, 2017
Jim was a great man and great neighbor. He was always offering to help us with things when we first moved in 6 years ago. He was so very kind hearted and rescued me a few times when I got stuck in the snow at the end of my driveway. Thank you Jim for being such a great person. And to his family, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
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