James J. Jago

James J. Jago, 'Big Jim' 69, of Duluth died Thursday, August 14, 2003, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer (Mesothelimoa). James was born July 29, 1934, in Duluth to Frank and Catherine (Verbonse) Jago. Jim attended Denfeld High School where he participated in track and field, played hockey, and football. He made the 'All City' football team two years in a row. Jim was united in marriage to Julie Hakala, his 'high school sweetheart' on June 11, 1955 in Duluth. He worked for Universal Atlas Cement Plant from 1954 to 1976 and for the MinnTac Mines from 1976 until his retirement, August 6, 1992, working 38½ years with U.S. Steel. Jim lived for his family and would do anything for them. He was a source of strength beyond words. Jim and his family would spend every weekend 'at the cabin' on Dinham Lake, which he built with his two sons. Jim had so many hobbies. He loved the lake, pontoon rides and never turned down the opportunity to go fishing. Jim loved watching his grandchildren participate in their school events. He loved mowing the lawn and tending to his gardens, and his lawn was his pride and joy! Jim had a huge workshop, filled with all of his tools, where he was always working on some kind of a wood project. He also loved football, baseball, and especially hockey. He really looked forward to planning their vacations and traveling each year. Jim also loved their dog, Katie. An everyday, morning ritual was sitting and looking at the lake, with his cup of coffee, reading the newspaper with 'his Katie' in his lap. Jim is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Raymond. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Julie; children, Joan Jago of Dakota Dunes, S.D., Jim (Judy Zigich) Jago, of Duluth, and Mike (Jamie) Jago, of Duluth; grandchildren, Janelle, Stephanie, Jim Jr. Jago, Matt Johnson, Jodi, Dan, Adam Jago; great-grandchild, Matt Johnson Jr.; brother and sisters, Don (Darlene) Jago of St. Joseph, Mo., June (Rudy) Lauri of Duluth, Betty (Clarence) Levine of Minnetonka, Carol (John Day) Strauss of Denver, Colo., and Karen (John) Balaich of Duluth; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. Our dad, grandfather, great-grandfather, and husband will always be loved, sadly missed and will be in our hearts forever. We love you, Pa! SERVICES:10:30 a.m., Monday, August 18, 2003, in St. Raphael's Catholic church, 5779 Seville Road in Pike Lake with Father Lawrence O'Shea officiating. Visitation will be held Sunday, August 17, 2003, from 5-7 p.m. at First Memorial Funeral Chapel, 4100 Grand Avenue in Duluth. Services entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Chapel. 218-624-5050