James T. Kangas

James Thomas Kangas, Jr., better known as Jimmy, was born on January 30th, 1974. He was the first-born child of Jim and Marie Kangas. ? Jimmy attended Newport Grade School and Ironwood High School, graduating with the Class of 1992. Upon graduation, he was awarded a Presidential 4-year ROTC Scholarship. He went on to attend St. Norbert College in DePere, WI, graduating with a Bachelors Degree in 1996. Jim was a decorated Army Officer and Veteran. During his 12-year Army stint, Jim rose to the rank of Captain. He was deployed to multiple locations during the Iraqi War. James Thomas Kangas Jr, was honorably discharged in 2006. He was presented with the Army Warrior Citizen Award. ? Jim enjoyed a diversified career. From selling furniture, to selling vacuum cleaners, he then spent the next seven years with Eutectic Corp as their Pulp and Paper Marketing Manager. Jim then went on to work in the welding and gas field. A natural leader and motivator, Jims career skyrocketed in that area. On October 11, 2010, Jim received Airgas SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR. His career path lead him to Praxair. Jim was the Technical Solutions Manager for North America and later went on to cover the states of Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. He was co-owner of H K Solutions, Inc. and IGI: Industrial Gas Infrastructure. Jim was a certified Welding Instructor and Inspector through the American Welding Society. ? Jim is survived by his daughter, Isabella (Bella) and a son, Gage. In addition, Jim is survived by his parents, Jim + Marie Kangas of Little Girls Point; a sister, Bonny Vosu and her sons, Silas + Espen of Portland, Oregon; and a brother, Thom (Renee) Kangas of Redlands, CA. Also included are aunts and uncles: Leroy + Shirley Kangas, Ruthie + Rudy Mlasko, Linda Elaine Spets, Waiko Spets, Art + Sue Spets, Cindy + Steve Miller and Ron + Nancy Spets. Jims best buddy, Neal Minkin, a friend, Cindy Cross, a host of relatives, and a plethora of friends from all over the United States. ? Jim is preceeded in death by his Grammas: Ruthie and Marian, his Papas: Arvo, Waiko and Tommy, a niece, Tuula Vosu, an aunt, Ida in infancy, uncle Raymond in childhood, numerous relatives and a special childhood friend, Judd Slining. ? Jim loved sports!! He loved swimming, camping, water skiing, hunting, and fishing. He played Little League and Babe Ruth. While in school, he played tennis, football and hockey. Jim played football for one year at St. Norbert College. ? His passion was the great outdoors!! You could always find him hiking thru the woods, camping, fishing and hunting. In addition, Jim had an affinity for white water kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving. ? Jim was an amazing visionary! He was always there whenever anyone needed him. His charge was to lend a helping hand to all fellow Veterans. He was a son, father, brother, mentor, teacher and friend. Many called him brother. When he worked on any project, he said that Im in this from the cradle to the grave. Any one in his inner circle heard of Jims DOWN WITH THE CLOWN SPECIAL! The following was posted by his Brothers