James "Jimmy" Disbrow

James "Jimmy" Disbrow

James Disbrow Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 18, 2002.
James `Jimmy' Disbrow July 9 1948-Oct 16 2002 James ``Jimmy'' Disbrow, went Home on October 16, 2002 after a courageous and valiant battle with brain cancer. Beloved and devoted husband of Dede. Adored father to Devon Hensel, Carl Hensel and son-in-law, Brandon Sorge. Loving son of David and Rita Lowery. Dear brother to Scott Lowery (Barb), Kristan Waggonar (Todd), Teri Tucker, Joan Orvis, Davey Disbrow. Born July 9, 1948 in Bowling Green, KY, Jimmy was destined for greatness. After an esteemed amateur figure skating career, in which he amassed several national titles in both singles and pairs, he spent two years touring internationally with Holiday On Ice. In 1982, Jimmy found his calling in the restaurant business, founding Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc. (known by devoted followers as BW3), with brother, Scott. Jimmy served as President and CEO until 1994 and Chairman of the Board until his death. Jim spent many years giving back to the figure skating world, first as a coach and then for 25 years as a National and World Judge. He served as President of the United States Figure Skating Association from 1998 until 2000. In 1998 he had the dual honor of serving as Team Leader for the 1998 Olympic Team in Nagano, Japan and as the Chair for the 1998 World Figure Skating Championships in Minneapolis, Minnesota. A congenial man, Jimmys electric personality would light up a room. People were drawn to his warmth and compassion. Jimmy knew no strangers and touched the lives of every person that he met. He was fiercely devoted to his family, dividing time between his sons high school hockey games and traveling the world to watch his daughters skating competitions. Jimmy cherished every relationship with his friends. No matter how successful Jimmy became, he was never too busy to stop and chat, every single morning, with every single employee in his office. He will always be remembered for his genuine interest in people, his loyalty and his seemingly endless benevolence. To his family, friends and all who knew him, Jimmys zest for life was truly proof of the unbreakable human spirit. He will forever be a part of our Team. Special thanks to Paul Sperduto, Walter Hall, Shirley Kern, Terry Doyle, Nancy Loebertmann, Yvonne Combs, Jackie Kauffman, all the wonderful individuals associated with Methodist Hospice, our friends at Colonial Church and to the numerous others who have supported and loved Jimmy throughout his journey. He is with us and with you always. Friends may call at Colonial Church of Edina, 2 p.m. on October 19, 2002. A celebration of Jim's life will follow the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to The Jimmy and Dede Disbrow Skating Foundation, c/o Carefree Capital, 1600 Utica Ave, Suite 700, Minneapolis, MN 55416. Donations are also welcomed to Minneapolis Radiation Oncology Memorial program or Colonial Church of Edina.

View All Photos

Add Photos to Memorial

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign James Disbrow's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

October 19, 2002

Don Ward posted to the memorial.

October 18, 2002

Diane Kirby posted to the memorial.

October 18, 2002

NANCY AND CAROLINE CARLSON posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Don Ward

October 19, 2002

Dede, Devon, & Carl,



I am saddened to hear of your loss and words never seem adequate, but I send my condolence to you all. Think about all of you often.

Don Ward

Pattaya, Thailand

Diane Kirby

October 18, 2002

Jim Disbrow was truly a Class Act. The skating world and others will surely miss his friendliness and supportivness. Our condolences to his wonderful wife, Dede and their family. John, Diane,Steve and Tara Kirby

NANCY AND CAROLINE CARLSON

October 18, 2002

Dede and Devon , I have no words to express my sorrow at the passing of Jimmy. You are in my thoughts and prayers. He was the kindest and most generous man I have ever met.

Showing 1 - 3 of 3 results

Make a Donation
in James Disbrow's name

How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor James Disbrow's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign James Disbrow's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

October 19, 2002

Don Ward posted to the memorial.

October 18, 2002

Diane Kirby posted to the memorial.

October 18, 2002

NANCY AND CAROLINE CARLSON posted to the memorial.