James Rusell “Jim” Germann was born in Beach, ND, the eldest son of Victor and Betty (Wymore) Germann on December 29, 1955. He was later joined by Duane, Dennis & Donna. He attended Wibaux Public Schools, graduating in 1974. Jim attended Dickinson State College and graduated with a BS in English and Journalism in 1978. He took a teaching position on Froid, MT, and later in Colstrip, MT.
Jim married Laura Wheeling on December 22, 1979 in Forsyth, MT. Jim took a teaching job in McIntosh, SD, their son, Cole, was born at this time in Hettinger, ND. He also taught English and Journalism in Williston, ND for 8 years. He was the North Dakota Journalism Advisor of the Year. In 1991, he entered the University of North Dakota, School of Education Administration.
Jim took his first administration position in Belcourt, ND. After that, the family moved to Plentywood, Hinsdale, Fromberg, Fairview, and lastly to Glendive, all in Montana. Jim was a builder, when the project was completed, he was ready to move to the next school. Jim retired after 33 years in Education, and moved to the ranch in Squaw Gap, ND, where he remained until his death.
Jim was a member of the Lions Club in Fairview, Kiwanians in Glendive, and was a member of the Association of School Administrators. He sat on the governing board of the AASA. His association with the AASA afforded him the opportunity to travel across America. Once at the ranch, he involved himself with the McKenzie County Grazing Association.
On August 3, 2019, Jim was diagnosed with glioblastoma, and died at the ranch on Saturday, September 14, 2019.
Jim is survived by his wife, Laura, Squaw Gap; his son, Cole (Grace), and his grandchildren, T.J. and Amy all of Squaw Gap; brothers, Dennis (Sue), Glendive, MT, Duane, Wibaux, MT; sister, Donna Pacheco, Beach, ND; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Mike (Patty) Wheeling, Sidney, MT and Joe (Jennifer) Wheeling, Durango, CO.
He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts, and uncles.

Memorial Contribution