James Cameron Sondreal

James “Jim” Cameron Sondreal, 75, of Thompson, ND passed away on Sunday, August 27th, 2023, at his home with loving family members by his side.

Jim was born on December 8th, 1947, to Cameron and Bertha “Dottie” Sondreal in St. Paul, MN. He grew up in Grand Forks, ND, and attended school there. Although he will tell you he received most of his education “out behind the barn.” On April 30th, 1966, Jim married Shirley Olson in Clearbrook, MN. They resided in multiple places raising 3 children, Steve, Shawn, and Jodi. Jim built their family home in East Grand Forks in 1974.

Jim wore many hats in his lifetime, he was a cement contractor and a carpenter for Grand Forks Schools to name a few. One of his many accomplishments was when he went into business with his son in January 1992 creating J&S in Thompson, ND. Jim never officially retired since he was always busy in the woods. Running the equipment and “supervising” is where you would find him.

Throughout his life, he enjoyed many things, hunting, riding his motorcycle, Sturgis, hill climbs, car shows, the lake, breakfast with “the boys”, ice cream, cooking/baking, and spending time with his family. He was also known for being a proud Norwegian by eating lutefisk and making lefse with his family every year. Jim will always be remembered for his humor and quick wit (not always appropriate!). You couldn’t go anywhere without someone knowing him. Being a Grandpa, “Papa” was one of his greatest treasures. In the words of Papa: “later”, and “enjoy.”

James is survived by his wife Shirley Sondreal, children: Steven Sondreal, Shawn (Melissa) Sondreal, Jodi (Chad) Boushee, grandchildren: Heather (Seth) Sondreal, Carli (Derek) Remer, Alex (Meghan) Sondreal, Jacob Boushee, Jenna Boushee, Cole Boushee, Cooper Boushee, Samantha Sondreal, and great-grandchild Charlotte Sondreal. Siblings: Gary Sondreal, Diane (Dale) Hilde, Lyle Sondreal, Sharon Sondreal, many nieces and nephews, and Daryl the cat.

He is preceded in death by Cameron and Bertha “Dottie” Sondreal, Beverly and Bob Heverly, D. Ray and Bonnie Sondreal, Carol Sondreal, and his dog Bud.

Memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 5th, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, East Grand Forks. Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the start of the service. Blessed be the memory of James, he will be dearly missed.