James Hennen

James Joseph Hennen, 77 years of age, was called home to our Lord Jesus Christ on Thursday, July 14,2022. He had been a patient at Sanford Hospital, Wheaton, Minnesota, for 6 days.

A Memorial Mass will be Saturday, August 13, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Ave Maria Catholic Church in Wheaton with Fr. John Paul Knopik Celebrant. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the church. Burial will be in Wildwood Cemetery.

James was born January 19, 1945 in the house he was raised in for eighteen years, and returned in 2008, to live with and care for his mother Genevieve. Jim was baptized and confirmed at Ava Maria Catholic church, where he was an altar boy for many years. Jim graduated from WHS in 1963. It was as said by some, that he was “a great WHS athlete” who was looked up to. Another said that he was “GQ good looking, friendly and liked by people of all ages.” Jim was simply a nice guy.

Following high school Jim attended Moorhead State University where he met several friends who were traveling to Alaska via car. During his time there, he was employed by the Alaskan Fish and Game Department, traveling hundreds of miles in a kayak in the rivers and streams seeking any poachers of protected fish or wild life.

He returned home and James Joseph Hennen then enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on August 29, 1967. During his time in the Service, he obtained the rank of SGT, as an Aviation Operations Clerk. James was awarded the National Defense Service Award, Good Conduct Medal and Rifle Marksman Badge. On June 18, 1971 he was honorably discharged.

Jim was employed as a bartender by the Crystal VFW for many years before returning home.  He enjoyed a good game of cards, including cribbage with his parents, siblings and nieces and nephews. Jim bowled league in Minneapolis for many years while living and working in the city. Annual opening fishing with his son and brothers was always something he looked forward to.  He was a kind and gentle man who will be remembered for his quiet and respectful nature. RIP JJ.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Genevieve Hennen, his brother John Hennen, and nephew Bradley Hennen. He is survived by his son Ryan J. Gross-Hennen, sisters Sharon Saxton and Lisa (Terry) Stier, brothers Lee (Verna) Hennen and Michael (Deb) Hennen, sister-in-law Judy Hennen and granddaughters Kaylynn, and twins McKenna and Peyton and many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank everyone for their kind expressions of love during this time of bereavement.

Cards and memorials may be sent to; 902 3rd Avenue North, Wheaton Minnesota 56296.