James (Jimmy) Russel Parks

James Parks, age 36, passed away unexpectedly in Bismarck, North Dakota on April 13, 2023, surrounded by his family.

James (Jimmy) Russel Parks, Jr. was born on November 13, 1986, in Alexandria Minnesota, to James and Kristine Parks. James was an active young man with a strong will and a free spirit. James grew up in Osakis, Minnesota and attended Osakis High School. James played football and basketball for OHS and was a dedicated and driven athlete. He enjoyed hunting with his father, fishing and anything involving sports. James attended college at St. Cloud Tech and wanted to be in the helping field. On April 04, 2007, James became a father. James loved his son and wanted very much to be a good Dad. James loved spending time with his family and friends and was a loyal person. James had a strong faith and continued that journey till the day he left us. Jimmy struggled finding his purpose in this world and we are comforted by the fact that he chose to give others a second chance through organ donation, and he is now at peace. #donatelife

The family would like you to know:

 James Russel Parks (James, Jimmy, Jim and Jimmer) was well-spoken, articulate, sarcastic, funny and had a great wit. Jimmy lived life as a free spirit and was a bit of a roller coaster at times. He was a talented writer and enjoyed drawing as well. James had a good heart and was always for the underdog. He was generous, determined, loyal, resourceful and spiritual. James had little tolerance for ignorance and could be difficult, hard-headed, and impatient at times. James loved to read and especially loved history. James loved his family and had a great desire to be mentally healthy. He will be greatly missed.

James is survived by his son, James Parks; mother, Kristine Parks; sisters, Mollie (Christopher) Schmitz, Carmen (Brian) Larson, Claire (Adam) Lish; half-sisters, Cindy (Jerome) Deichert, Nikki (Jason) Leaunart, and Lori (Joe Lombardo) Ricci; grandfather, William Malvin; along with his many loving aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins.