James Jossart

James Elroy Jossart, 71, Bismarck, died on February 2, 2008, at his home after a short and courageous battle with ALS. Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 10:30 AM at Faith Lutheran Church in Bismarck with Rev. Wes Aardahl and Rev. Chris Alexander officiating. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 2:00 - 9:00 PM at Eastgate Funeral Service in Bismarck where a prayer service will be held at 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue Thursday one hour prior to the service at the church. James was born on May 20, 1936, in Benson, MN, the son of Ralph and Esther Johnson Jossart. He attended grade school through high school in Benson, graduating in 1954. He loved sports and played football and basketball at Benson. He then attended Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, and played football for the Cobbers. Jim graduated in 1958 with a degree in science and physical education. Upon graduation, he began teaching in Hawley, MN. He taught science and physical education and coached football, wrestling, and golf. On June 6, 1959, he married his high school sweetheart, Sonja Karen "Toni" Johnson. In 1964, they moved to Bismarck when Jim began his new career as a pharmaceutical sales rep for the Upjohn Company. His territory covered the western half of North Dakota. He retired after 33 years of dedicated service and had received many awards and honors. He made many wonderful friends throughout his career and life, as he was loved by everyone who knew him. His charming smile, great personality, and keen sense of humor were his trademarks. Jim was a very active member of Faith Lutheran Church and was involved with many fundraisers, bible studies, and helping whenever he was needed. Jim was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, golfing, and all sporting activities. In his retirement he found great pleasure in following the sporting events of his grandchildren. He was very proud of their accomplishments athletically and academically. He passed on his love of sports, education, and his competitive nature to them. Jim is survived by his wife, Toni of Bismarck; his son, Brad Robin of Bismarck; his daughter, Sara Bill Blaha of Verndale, MN; six grandchildren, Brittany, Erika, Jordyn, Eric, Mitchell, and Katie; two brothers, Merle Pat of Buffalo, MN, and Curtis Sarah of Elgin, IL; and one sister, Joyce Jossart of St. Paul, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Ron.

James Jossart

May 20, 1936 - February 2, 2008