Jim Birt

James "Jim" Richard Birt Jim Birt, 89, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2024. Born on February 27, 1935, in St Paul, MN, Jim was the son of Wesley and Madelyn Birt. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Don and Robert/"Bud," sister Pat, and is survived by sister Collinette. Jim attended Cretin High School in St. Paul, MN. He went on to earn a degree in History and PhyEd from the University of Minnesota Duluth and a Master's at the University of Wisconsin Superior. Jim proudly served his country in the 1st Marine Division Recon Company from 1954 to 1956 during the Korean War and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. Jim had a long and successful career as an educator. He spent most of his career at Barnum High School in Barnum, MN. Jim's early teaching career included time in Oregon, Washington, and southern Minnesota. He impacted thousands of lives as a devoted teacher, guidance counselor, coach, and driver's education instructor. As kids, we often heard someone shout, "Hey, Mr. Birt!" It was common for us to run into his former athletes and students...whether at McDonald's or in the middle of nowhere on a camping/fishing trip in Northern Minnesota. He cared about every student, especially those who needed the most guidance/direction. Jim enjoyed watching sports and the game show network. He was a die-hard Vikings, Gophers, and Twins fan. In his golden years at Village Shores, he enjoyed playing poker, bingo, and team trivia with his special friend, Rita. He was a loving father to Mike Birt (Diana Henry) and Krista Wight (Mark). He was a proud grandpa to five beautiful granddaughters: the Wight girls, Katie (Owen), Regan, and Scarlett; and the Birt girls, Olivia and Ava. He was affectionately known as Papa Moo by his grandchildren, but his other nicknames included Coach, Jimbo, Jim-Bob, and Uncle Jim to his numerous nieces and nephews. No matter the nickname, one thing is clear... Jim made a significant impression on many people, and he lives on in each of us who had the honor of knowing him.

Tributes

Jim Birt

February 27, 1935 - September 18, 2024

Tributes

Jim Birt

February 27, 1935 - September 18, 2024

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