Obituary of James Bernard Tschida

James Bernard Tschida passed away peacefully early in the morning on Friday, July 22nd surrounded by his family. Jim was a tower of strength, courage, and perseverance. He fought a long and brave battle against physical ailments while never losing his sarcastic wit, sense of humor, ability to communicate by eye roll, and overflowing love for his family. Jim was born to Bernard and Doris Tschida on October 4th, 1942 in St. Paul, Minnesota. As a teenager Jim had a great love of hockey and played for his high school team. As a young adult, Jim served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Guam. Eventually, Jim met and fell in love with Judith Christiansen. They were married on September 8th, 1972 and had a joyful life together, raising two children, Greg and Kathy, in Maplewood, Minnesota. Tragically, Jim lost Judi in a car accident in 2000. Through the wonders of online dating, Jim met Julie Baumgarten in 2003. They built a life together, traveling between homes in Minnesota and Arizona, traveling abroad, golfing, and spoiling their grandchildren rotten. While Jim struggled with many physical health issues during the last few years of his life, he spent his days watching movies, playing computer games, eating old time candy, and making people laugh with his jokes and email forwards. Jim will be deeply missed by his family. He leaves behind his son, Greg Tschida, daughter, Kathy Tschida, and grandson Drake. Along with Jim’s children, Jim leaves behind his partner, Julie Baumgarten and her children Andy Baumgarten (Tammy), Sarah Baumgarten-Leveille (Al), and Betsy Baumgarten (Robert) and grandchildren William, Jack, Finley, George, Emily, and George. Jim also leaves behind his brothers David (Jean) and Gary (Mary) and sister Gloria (Howard), along with many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers you are invited to make a memorial in Jim’s honor to the Fairbanks Amateur Hockey Association, PO Box 72712 Fairbanks, Alaska 99707 After the service everyone is invited to Julie’s house for a lunch reception and time to share stories about Jim. Julie’s address is 3650 East Third Street, Duluth