James Francis Schoffman

James F. Schoffman, age 71, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2024 beside his beloved wife in their loving home in Fridley, MN. He joins his parents Mary Jane and Francis Schoffman, his sister Mary Theisen, brother-in-law David Gorecki and in-laws Elaine and Ralph Gorecki.

Known as Jim, Jimmy or Rocky, he grew up in Avon, MN, graduating from Albany Senior High School in 1971. He went on to St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN where he received his degree in Business Administration in 1975. One of his passions in life was track and field which he enjoyed more than the academics. He participated in track in high school, college and later as a USATF Masters athlete and competed at local, national and world championships. He was inducted into the Minnesota Senior Association Hall of Fame on May 17, 2019.

In October of 1979, Jim married his high school sweetheart and best friend, Nancy. They have resided in the same home for the past 43 years where he has almost single handedly built their existing garage, deck, gazebo and added on to the front of the house. His wife especially enjoys one of his last projects, a beautiful “she shed”.

They were blessed with two children, Bradley and Sarah, who have given them much joy. He worked for 34 years at Lakeland Engineering Equipment Company where he was regarded not just as a coworker but as a friend.

He was a loving, dedicated husband and father. He is survived by his wife Nancy, children Bradley and Sarah (Christopher Fry) and his siblings Marcia (Bill) Huls, Robert (Mimi) Schoffman, and Philip (Chris) Schoffman, and their families.

Jim had a strong faith and it was reflected in the way he lived his life. He recently joined the Church of St. Timothy where he enjoyed worship. He was a long-time member of the Church of St. William in Fridley, MN and was involved in ministries there. For many years he planted and tended their annual flower bed which all seemed to admire. 

Even after his cancer diagnosis, Jim embraced life and said he would not let cancer define him. He continued traveling, gardening, running and coaching track, organizing meets and he even started woodturning toward the end. He found joy in the simple things in life whether it was sitting on a bench in a local park or just cooking breakfast. He never took for granted what truly matters—family and friends.

Jim taught us to be gracious and patient, to think before speaking, and to stay positive. He was a beacon of kindness and support. He demonstrated strength and courage throughout his illness.

Jim is an incredible tribute to the human spirit, courage in the face of adversity. He has touched many lives and his legacy will live on through the people he has inspired.

A celebration of life will be held at the Church of St. Timothy in Blaine, MN on September 20. Mass will be at 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour prior. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center: cancer.umn.edu/donate. Select “Digestive Cancer” and then “Make a gift” in honor of Jim Schoffman. If you prefer to donate by check, it can be mailed to: University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center Foundation, P.O. Box 860266, Minneapolis,MN 55486. Donation Designation: Digestive Cancer Research Fund. In memory of Jim Schoffman