James E. Bungum

James E. Bungum, 82, who resided in Rochester a majority of his life with the exception of a 20-year period when work took him to Fountain Hills, AZ, died peacefully in his sleep at Samaritan Bethany Nursing Home on Sunday, December 18, 2016 with family by his side. Jim was born July 22, 1934 in rural Hayfield, MN to G. Norman and Elsie Bungum. He married Verleen Thompson on March 18, 1951. Jim worked for the Mayo Clinic in the Urology Department in both Rochester and Scottsdale for 38 years before retiring and returning to Rochester. While retired, he continued to pursue his passions, softball, hunting golf, and travel. In addition, he loved spending time with his family and friends. During his less active years following the complications of lung cancer, he enjoyed watching sports and old westerns on television and playing cards. Jim is survived by his wife, of 66 years, Verleen, his three children, Pamela (Wade) Davick of Winona, Shelley DeBernardi of Northfield and Timothy (Nicole) Bungum of Las Vegas; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and five siblings, Don Bungum, Janice Blattie, Peter Bungum, John Bungum and Mark Bungum. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Paul and Charles; and sister, Elizabeth. He will be greatly missed by family and friends and all who have been privileged to know him. There will be a Memorial Service on Thursday, December 22, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church (810 3rd Avenue SE) with the Reverend Anjanette Bandel officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes on Wednesday, December 21, 2016 and one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Burial will take place at Byron cemetery. Memorials can be directed to Mayo Clinic for Lung Cancer Research; Bethel Lutheran Church or Samaritan Bethany. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600 www.ranfranzandvinefh.com