James "Jim" Runge

James “Jim” Allen Runge was born on July 20, 1950, in Eagle Bend, Minnesota to Clifford and Bernice (Johnson) Runge.  He attended and graduated in 1968 from Harlem High School in Rockford, IL.  Jim then attended Rock Valley Community College where he earned his degree in plumbing.

Jim married Carolyn Ward on August 22, 1969 and the couple was blessed with three children: Troy, Kim, and Jessica.  He worked a variety of jobs, working with his brother, Merle, plumbing in Hoffman, the Pipefitters Union, Dairy Equipment Sales, owning R & R Dairy Equipment, and starting Jim Runge Plumbing and Heating.  Jim was a hard worker and continued running his business until the time of his passing.

Jim enjoyed going to car shows, restoring cars, collecting Coca Cola memorabilia, antique shopping, and visiting with family and friends.  His greatest joy was being a devoted husband, dad, and grandpa.

Jim died on Friday, September 18, 2020, at his home in Alexandria at the age of 70.  He is survived by his wife: Carolyn Runge; three children: Troy (Patricia) Runge, Kim (Scott) Schoen, and Jessica Colgrove; seven grandchildren: Cole, Mitch, Shaun, Griffin, Dylan Runge, Amiyah and Nyland Colgrove; four siblings: Merle (Shirley) Runge, Jerry (Carol) Runge, Deborah (Richard) Shouler, and Bradley (Nancy) Runge; sister-in-law: Karen Runge; and brother-in-law: Randy Kneprath.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sister: Bonnie Kneprath; brother: Randy Runge; nephew: Scott Runge; and son-in-law: Travis Colgrove.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 25, 2020, 10:30 a.m. at New Life Christian Church in Alexandria.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2020, 6:00 – 8:00 PM at the New Life Christian Church and one hour prior to the service on Friday.  Interment will be at Hudson Cemetery.