James R. Griffin
Wednesday, February 21, 1940
Date of Death:
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Age:
85 years old
James R. Griffin
James R. Griffin
February 21, 1940 – July 29, 2025
James R. Griffin, age 85, of Rochester, MN, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, in Rochester.
Jim was born on February 21, 1940, in Rochester to Harold and Madeline Griffin. He graduated from Lourdes High School in 1959 and from Rochester Community College in 1961. During his school years, he was an avid athlete who especially enjoyed playing football and basketball. After graduation, he continued his love of sports by coaching B Squad football and basketball at Lourdes, and later, girls’ basketball at St. Pius.
In 1961, Jim married Diana McCarter, and together they raised three children—Michael, Brian, and Maureen—in Rochester. The couple later divorced. In 1997, Jim married Geraldine Lorsung Vroman, with whom he shared many happy years.
Jim worked much of his life as a salesman, a role well suited to his friendly and outgoing personality. After retirement, he stayed active by working with various lawn care services and in the cafeteria at Lourdes High School.
He especially enjoyed visits from his children and spending time playing poker or checkers with his grandsons.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Geraldine; his children Michael (Judy) of Sun City, AZ, Brian (Denise) of Albany, NY, and Maureen of Show Low, AZ; and stepchildren Richard (Jennifer) Vroman of Louisburg, NC, and Daniel (Cherie) Vroman of Plymouth, MN. He is also survived by six step-grandsons—Noah Vroman, Elijah Vroman, Jonah Vroman, Jessie (Cassie) Paynter, Nathan Paynter, and Dylan Paynter—and three step great-grandsons.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Gerald and David; and his stepdaughter, Susan Vroman Bernard.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, with visitation beginning one hour prior. Burial will follow at St. Bridget’s Cemetery in Simpson, MN.
Online condolences may be shared at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.
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As Daivd’s big brother, Jimmy was like another uncle. So smiley and fun to be around. It was always a literal treat when he was working in the cafeteria at Lourdes. He’d sneak me entire buckets of leftover cookies to share with my friends. ☺️ I’m sure Griff is happy to have you, but you will be missed Jimmy!