James Hugo

James "Jim" Hugo, age 81, of Glendale, AZ passed away peacefully at home on August 11, 2025. Jim was born on August 21, 1943 to Robert and Mary Helen (Walter) Hugo in Minneapolis, MN where he grew up and attended school. Jim served in the US Navy on the USS Wright before working at Control Data, where he met his wife, Joan. Together he and Joan raised two sons and a daughter in Richfield, MN who he leaves behind with loving memories of growing up. He will be sorely missed by his family - Jerry (Amy) and grandchildren Skyler and Zach; Brian and grandchildren Elizabeth and Brandon; Belinda Kirvan (Chad) and grandchildren Alex and Donelle. We are thankful for his quick wit and humor that keeps us laughing and the experiences that he provided as we were growing up. Some of our best family memories are the camping and extensive RV trips that we took. Jim will also be remembered for his love of working on the railroad, first Milwaukee Road, then Soo Line, and finally CP Rail. His love of trains spread to building model railroads with his children and grandchildren, again creating lasting memories for all. Jim's capacity to lend a helping hand and his knack for fixing anything allowed him to be the source of knowledge and help for his children. His love for coaching his son's little league team spoke volumes of his dedication to nurturing and leading his children. He also enjoyed tending to his yard work and building items around the house. While indoors, he'd delve into the serenity of assembling puzzles and exercising his mind with crosswords and sudoku. While living in Richfield, Jim served as a Stephen's Minister at Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary which allowed him to share his faith and compassion with fellow parishioners. Jim is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and siblings; John, Guy (Barb), and Marji Karjalahti (Roger) as well as nieces and nephews. Jim will be forever missed and left an indelible mark on many lives. A small mass will be held this fall at St. Raphael Catholic Church in Glendale, AZ followed by interment at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix.