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James Gunn Obituary
Gunn, James, Sr.
on Thursday, August 29, 2019, died peacefully at his home in Manchester at the age of 78.
Jim was born on July 11, 1941 in St. Louis, MO to Judge Donald and Loretto Gunn. He was graduated from St. Louis University High School in 1959, St. Louis University in 1962 and St. Louis University School of Law in 1965 and went on to practice law in St. Louis for over 50 years. He retired from Thompson Coburn LLP in 2012 as a Partner and Chair of the Health Care Practice.
His legal focus on health care began with his representation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, acting as outside general counsel to St. Joseph Hospital in Kirkwood for more than 25 years. He went on to become a national expert in health care law. Throughout his career, Jim was widely respected by clients and colleagues for his keen business insights, warmth and great humor.
But Jim will be remembered most for the kindness and generosity he showed to everyone with whom he came in contact. He had a genuine interest and compassion for others, which combined with his quick wit and hearty laugh, made all feell welcome and included.
Jim was a proud lifelong St. Louisan and was involved in multiple civic and local charitable organizations. He was a member of the Missouri Athletic Club for more than 50 years. Jim was also a longtime friend of Bill W.
Above all else, Jim was committed to his family. He was married at the St. Louis Cathedral on July 24, 1965 to the love of his life, Lee (nee Hynek), whom he adored from the day he arranged to chaperone her to the Coronation Ball at St. Louis U. High in 1958. They would go on to raise six children together. The love and immense pride he had for each of his children and grandchildren were overwhelming, evident in the glowing stories he was quick to share in every conversation.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and daughter Angela.
He is survived by his wife Lee, his six children and their partners, James, Jr. and Jenn Holland of Los Angeles, Patrick and Laura of Brooklyn, Beth Anne Gunn and Alec Myers of Los Angeles, Brian and Erin of Los Angeles, Matt and Michelle of Los Angeles, and Sean and Natasha of Los Angeles; and eight grandchildren, Griffin, Declan, Jaden Li, Mason, Grace, Will, Max and Ryder.
He is also survived by his eight brothers and sisters, Kay Martin, Donald Gunn, Jr., Sister Donna Loretto Gunn, Thomas Gunn, Margaret Fowler, Michael Gunn, Patrick Gunn and Bridget Calcaterra, and their spouses, multiple nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
Services: Funeral from the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Friday, 1:45 p.m. to St. Joseph Catholic Church, Manchester for 2:00 p.m. Mass. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you honor Jim with a contribution in his memory to the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondolet, https://www.csjsl.org/ways-to-give/make-a-donation. Visitation Thursday 4-8 p.m. Friends may sign the family's online guestbook at Schrader.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Gunn
John McManamee
March 28, 2021
Just learned of Jim’s passing; We were friends in the neighborhood and Jim was the main reason I transferred from public school to St. Engelbert school, an all German school with two Irishmen! Haven’t seen Jim in a long long time, sorry He passed so young. Sympathy for all His family ,Rest In Peace Jim.
Ray Breiding
March 26, 2020
Deer Lee;
Just learned of Jims death through SLU
Worked with Jim at St. Joseph Hospital and the City of Manchester
What a great friend and mentor
Loved his mom and dad too
So sorry got your loss
God Bless
Ray Breiding
Michael Ross
September 18, 2019
Our fathers (SLUH Class of '26) were lifelong friends which made our friendship a natural continuation of that bond. And over the decades I watched you conquer work, love, and life. The family that you and Lee raised are exceptional in every way, which is not surprising knowing you both. I will miss your optimism, humor, politics, and especially the fishing trips. My sincere condolences to the Gunn Family. Rest in Peace, my friend.
BRIAN KRISKA
September 11, 2019
thank you jim for being my friend. you have always been kind and fun to be with- it's who you were. it was a privilege to be at your service recently and hear how you helped so many in life and how you respected everyone with dignity and respect. I will never forget you, you left a great impression on me as a person and how to conduct ones life. your kids are a great testament to the kind of man you were. I will miss you dear friend. love, Brian
Jennifer (Smith) Schmid
September 9, 2019
I am so honored to have had the opportunity to know Mr. Gunn, his beautiful wife and family while in high school. It was so fun to meet all of the siblings and to see what remarkable replicas they are of their wonderful, welcoming and kind parents. I will never forget Troll Court and the lovely family I was able to spend time with for that short time. Thank you...
Jennifer (Smith) Schmid
September 9, 2019
I remember Jim when he was the city attorney for the city of Manchester and I was an alderman . He was always a very helpful and accommodating attorney.
I also was a member of St JOSEPH parish.
Good to see that Jim is in a much better place now.
Accept my condolences to the family.
Al Tryba
Michael Diehl
September 7, 2019
Jim was so proud and adoring of his family we especially liked the nicknames he used. He was always friendly and welcoming to us, with a ready question to draw us out. We love and admire the incredible Gunn family and wish all of you peace and comfort at this difficult time.
-Mike Diehl and Cristina Rabadan
Bart Baumstark
September 6, 2019
Jim gave me my first job out of Law School (when he didn't have to). Taught me so much in a short time. A great lawyer and a greater person. Very sad to have learned of his passing this morning. Prayers for his wife and entire family, particularly Brian and Beth. God bless.
Lisa Holmes
September 6, 2019
Mr. Gunn is truly a wonderful man. I worked at TC with him for 17 years and have nothing but wonderful memories. He has left a beautiful legacy and a hole in many hearts. My condolences to the family.
Jack & Julie Lally
September 6, 2019
Dear Lee and family,
We extend our deepest sympathy and hold Jim and all the Gunns in our prayers. It was a blessing to have Jim as a personal friend and as an associate in the work of Catholic Charites. He was a brilliant, strong, gifted, and wise professional leader. As a personal friend he brought laughter and joy into our lives. God bless him and all the Gunn family.
Sincerely,
Jack & Julie Lally
Edward Filippine
September 5, 2019
Sorry circumstances prevent my being with you in person but I did want to send my condolences to Jim's family and pay my respects to an outstanding man and great attorney. He will be missed but who he was and what he did will live on.
Regina Mooney
September 5, 2019
May his name be inscribed in our hearts. He was such a friend of St. joseph's Academy.
Marilyn Gomerich
September 5, 2019
Dear Lee,
Blessed are those who mourn
For they shall be comforted.
I am wrapping you and your beautiful family in my arms of celebration, thoughts and prayers in honor of one of the best fellows I have had the privilege to know.
Heaven is just a bit brighter as Jim makes his way home.
Today and always, may loving memories bring you peace, and strength. I pray each of you his joy always...
Marilyn
September 5, 2019
Like Jim, I am also a friend of Bill W. Here is part of the role that Jim has played in my journey. In my 35 years of sobriety; I have told my story of strength, hope and recovery countless times. There are only three comments that I have committed to memory. Out of those three; Jim's profound and kind words are always the ones that jump to the front. I always admired the balance of strength and kindness that he had in his voice. Thoughts and prayers.
Phillip Sullivan
September 5, 2019
It's been said you remember a person not so much for what they acquired, accomplished, or social status, but how they made you feel. As I write this thinking about Jim, I cannot help but smile because he always made me feel better after our fun conversations. Thank you Jim for the wonderful memories you left me as well as your family and friends.
Patricia Przyzycki
September 5, 2019
I worked at The Stolar Partnership and was privileged to be associated with Jim. He had the most outgoing personality and a true "Irish twinkle" in his eye. Such a warm, considerate human being. He had a wonderful sense of humor. Whenever we would occasionally pass each other at the mall, on the street, etc. he always had a moment to share a few words. Rest in Peace, Jim, and blessing on your family at this sad time.
Joan Carson-Orberson
September 4, 2019
I was so very saddened to read of Mr. Gunn's passing. I worked at TC for many years, although not directly for Mr. Gunn. When I did see him, he was always friendly, kind and welcoming. We occassionally had time for more than "hi" in passing, and when we did, he always talked about his children. He was so proud of each and every one. He'd light up when talking about their accomplishments, radiating pride and love. Rest in peace, Mr. Gunn. You will be missed.
Rene Steinkellner
September 4, 2019
My Deepest Condolences to the entire Gunn Family.
Peggy Doyle-Rustige
September 4, 2019
My condolences and prayers for the Gunn family.
I knew most of you from St. Engelbert. To Kay, Tom and Bridget, I will be thinking of you and praying for you at this of sorrow.
Mike Pierle
September 4, 2019
Lee and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Always enjoyed the social and work time involved with Jim. A good person who gave a lot to those around him.
Alison and Fran Rodilosso
September 4, 2019
Love and warm wishes to Patrick and the entire Gunn family at this time.
Doreen Dodson
September 4, 2019
It was my honor and privilege to work closely with Jim on health care issues when we both were at the Stolar Partnership and to enjoy and benefit from his kindness, sense of humor and wisdom in so many areas. His wonderful family is a tribute to a life well- lived. May you rest peacefully Jim.
September 4, 2019
I worked with Jim a long time ago preparing a MRI sale for DePaul hospital. He was the consummate professional and friend, I will never forget him! My condolences to Bridget and Tom and the entire Gunn family.
Larry Stein
Pat and Charlie Hajek
September 3, 2019
Anyone who met Jim for the first time immediately felt comfortable in his presence. He was kind, friendly, and welcoming. He put his faith and family first. Our family owes him a debt of gratitude for his compassion and kindness when it was needed. Thank you, Jim. Now go enjoy your eternal reward in the presence of our Heavenly Father. Well done good and faithful servant. Matthew 25:23
Thomas Whalen
September 3, 2019
Prayers and thoughts to the Gunn family from a distant name and face of the past, Thomas R. Whalen. Curiously, I was reading James recent interview with Buzzfeed, in which Jim talks abut growing up in West County, I always remember Counsel Young as the best-dressed dad, always wearing shirt and tie, even if just going to sporting event. Likewise, I will always remember Lee Gunn as that perfect room-mother. Peace to all. TRW, M.D., STL
Mary (Walsh) Cissell
September 3, 2019
My prayers and thoughts are with the Gunn family and friends during this difficult time! Till we meet again, may God hold Jim in the palm of His hands! Love to all,
Stephen Hanlon
September 3, 2019
He was a giant in all of our lives.
The California Sengs
September 2, 2019
Three generations of our family came to know, enjoy and love Jim, his stories, his wonderful laugh and his kind heart. We will share his legacy with the next generation who missed the opportunity to get to know him. We all will miss him.
Cara Orlowski
September 2, 2019
Sending lots of love to the entire Gunn family at this difficult time.
Tom Lowther
September 2, 2019
Jim was a great friend and, for many years, a great law partner at the Stolar P artnership (now dissolved). It was very distressing to learn of his passing and I and my family send our most sincere condolences to Lee and family.
September 2, 2019
A loyal loving friend. I will miss him so.
RIP Big Guy!
LT
Tom & Susan Noser
September 2, 2019
Our deepest sympathies to the Gunn family.
George Schneider
September 1, 2019
Jim was one if those rare really nice people who found much success in his career and life. He will be missed.
E van Assum
September 1, 2019
Condolences from an acquaintance of your family, from Canada. May you hold each other close during this time. So terribly sorry for your loss.
Bridget Cslcaterra
September 1, 2019
Ive loved you my whole life, and Tom has loved you for close to 45 years. We will miss your wicked sense of humor, integrity, wisdom & your big Irish laugh. RIP Jimmy, you deserve it.
Kathryn English
August 31, 2019
Sincere condolences from the English family!
Norm Conley
August 31, 2019
Jim was a fantastic lawyer and a loyal friend. More importantly, he was a fantastic person. He will be missed.
Harry Whitney
August 31, 2019
Jim taught me so much. How to hide behind a tree working at Calvary Cemetery in 1961 to negotiating terms of hospital transfers from 1992 until 2006. I learned so much--most of all, how to be a real man.
Carolyn Ring
August 31, 2019
The St. Joseph's Academy Class of 1960 extends its deepest sympathy to the entire Gunn family.
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Memorial Events
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Sep
5
Visitation
4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
Sep
6
Funeral
1:45 p.m.
Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
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Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
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