James Kustritz
June 19, 1956 — September 7, 2016
James Kustritz, 60, of Finland, MN died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, September 7, 2016.
He was born on June 19, 1956 to Donald and Claire (Fontaine) Kustritz in South St. Paul, where he grew up and attended school. Jim graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Microbiology and was employed as a research scientist with Cargill. In 2002, Jim and Chris moved to Finland, MN where he was employed at the Silver Bay Ambulance, Finland Post Office, and most recently Wolf Ridge ELC. He volunteered countless hours to: Lake County Search and Rescue, the Finland Historical Society, and the Superior Hiking Trail Association.
He enjoyed running, splitting wood, carving wooden spoons, being outside, and spending time with his grandchildren.
Preceded in death by his father, Donald.
Jim is survived by his wife of 37 years, Chris; children, Matthew (Martha) of Stillwater and Maria of Minneapolis; grandchildren, Julia, Raphael, and Antonio; mother, Claire; siblings, Joe (Gladys), Annette (Steve) Sobaskiewiez, John (Sharon), Mary, Jeff, Jerome, Kathy Willenbring, Jacques (Julie), Joel (Barbi), Karen (Paul) Fischer, and Jason (Peggy); and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be from 1 PM until the 2 PM Mass on Saturday, September 17, 2016 at St. Mary’s Church in Silver Bay.