James Roger DeGREE

1931 - 2017

Age 86, of Inver Grove Heights, MN Born July 20, 1931 in St. Paul, Minnesota, he was the son of the late Martha DeGree. He is now with his loving wife Phyllis of 62 years and survived by their five children Rick James DeGree of Woodbury MN, Cynathia Marie Kedrowski husband Steve of Chisago City MN, Scott Alan DeGree wife Helen of Livingston Texas, Michele Annette McAlpine husband Douglas of Dayton MN, and Julie Ann DeGree of New Brighton MN., twelve grandchildren, and thirteen great grandchildren. James will be long remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, and friend to many. He loved dancing, fishing, hunting, playing cards and family gatherings. Whenever we would go out to dinner he would always have a twinkle in his eye as he tease the waitress. Phyllis and Jim lived on Rush Lake, MN for 21 years. They loved having company and no matter who came up they were treated like a part of the family. First they rented a spot where they had a camping trailer and then their dream came true and were able to get their lake home .Whenever the family had a gathering we all had a blast playing cards, fishing, swimming and visiting with each other. Respect and honesty was something James taught, installed, valued, and followed all his whole life. We were taught those same values and will always follow his advice. Celebration of Life on Thursday, Aug. 31, 2017 from 12:00-4:00 PM. at Cremation Society of MN; 7835 Brooklyn Blvd; Brooklyn, MN 55445.