Obituary of James Arthur Hill

James “Jumbo” Hill, age 88, passed away peacefully at home on November 26, 2021 surrounded by his favorite people: his family. Born and raised in Duluth, Jim was a kind and humble man. He retired after over 40 years at Franklin Foods.

He attended Denfeld High School where he competed as a three-sport athlete. One of his greatest athletic memories was playing on the 1950 State Championship baseball team. He was crowned homecoming “King Jumbo.” He went on to UMD and played football before marrying his high school sweetheart Peggy Pederson in 1952. Jim and Peggy were blessed with 69 years of marriage, six children, 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Family was his greatest accomplishment and they brought him his most joy.

An avid overall sports enthusiast, Jim enjoyed fishing, golfing at Enger Park, watching his grandkids participate in sports, and many activities. Grandpa Jim was loved and adored, and he will surely be missed!

Jim is survived by his wife Peggy, children Nancy Anderson, Tom (Sue) Hill, Ronny (Tina) Hill, Connie (Larry) Johnson, Jon (Shelly) Hill, Mike Hill; grandchildren Carrie, Jen, Jimmy, Aaron, Katie, Travis, Julie, Mallory, Brett, Trent, Jason, Alec, Kassie, Lauren, Kamryn and Karin; 13 great grandchildren; his sister Mary (Everett) House, and many loving nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Eino and Esther Hill, brothers Bob and Norman Hill, and son-in-law Steve Anderson.

A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, December 2, 2021, at 1:00 PM at Spirit of God (formerly Zion) Lutheran Church, 2431 W 3rd St, Duluth, MN 55806. Visitation to be held one hour prior to the service.