Hubert James

Hubert "Sonny" James 72, Grand Forks, died December 1, 2012 in Altru Hospital. Hubert was born on November 18, 1940 in Bradford, Arkansas, the son of Hubert Lee. and Gwendolyn (Mathew) James. He grew up in Van Buren, Arkansas graduating from Van Buren High School in 1960. After high school Sonny joined the United States Air Force where he proudly served for 25 years. In 1964 while serving in Spain at Torrejon Air Base, he married his loving wife of 48 years, Francie Prackatsch. Sonny served his country in Spain, Colorado, Oregon, Germany, and Grand Forks. He retired from active duty in 1984. They made their home in Grand Forks where he worked for JR Simplot for 17 years. Sonny had a love for football and he coached the base varsity team for a while. He also had a passion for collecting vinyl records, baseball cards and his cigars. He liked to spend time with his friends talking and having a Pepsi. Hubert is survived by his wife of 48 years Francie, daughter Michelle (Eric) Voigt, Sarasota, FL, brother Charlie (Betty Ann) James, Van Buren, AR, sister LuAnn (LeRoy)Lane, OK, 3 nieces and nephews, 5 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, his dog Teddy and Minka the family cat. He was preceded in death by his parents, and daughter Elke DelGaudio who died May 12, 2012. Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, December 5, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. in Amundson Funeral Home, Grand Forks. Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the start of the service. Interment will be in US National Cemetery, Fort Smith, AR.