James Aiden Maunu, 17, succumbed to complications with having type one diabetes June 19, 2022. Born in Portsmouth, VA, he was first diagnosed in 2019 and was a true warrior.

James had many nicknames: Jimmy, JimJam, SlimJim were a few family favorites. While the Tiger teammates frequently called him Wisconsin and Mono, in 9th grade, they also enjoyed calling him Cheese Boy, though it was often followed by the team doing extra work outs as punishment.

James had a heart bigger than this world has ever seen. He would help anyone who needed it and never expect anything in return. A truly selfless young man. Everyone you talked to who knew James would speak of his kindness, helpfulness, and how he was always such a good friend. James’s big personality and open sense of humor made anyone around him laugh, usually at his own expense.

He found love in many things: football, fishing, music, LEGO, amusement parks, and spending time with his friends and family. Football was by far his focus and drive. He would, some days begrudgingly, get up early for 6 and 7am work outs just to be there early to help. He strived to improve his game and would watch film after with his mom and talk about what he needed to do differently or how someone else might have affected his moves.

Fishing was his peaceful place. He didn’t care who tagged along, or if he went by himself. His brother, Kooper’s favorite memory is of them going fishing and Kooper always catching at least one fish, but Jimmy catching at least five.

His LEGO collection and patience to build expanded to working on small engines. Enjoying every summer trip to grandpas because it included wrench time, which evolved to tinkering at home. His mom, sister Emma, and several friends enjoyed attending various music concerts with him at Virginia Beach Amphitheater in Virginia and Walmart AMP as well as other venues in Arkansas.

His endless love for his siblings was shown through his patience. No matter what, James always listened to his brother and sisters to show them his best self. Kooper was always in need of a good laugh and video game buddy, while Karina loved being spoiled by James taking her for trips to the store or treats like Sonic slushes.

James expressed interest in many careers over his short time with us. From being a LEGO designer, small engine mechanic, to Sports Medicine and Nutrition, which ever path he chose, he would have been exemplary.

There is no doubt James will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Survived by: mother, Marci Schroeder; father, Jesse Maunu (wife Gina); grandpa, George Simonson; grandmother, Deanna Maunu; siblings; Emma, Emmalyn, Kooper, Karina, and Maklin; uncles and aunts, Mick (Chris) Simonson, Andrew Maunu, Marcus (Abby) Simonson; and newest cousin, Chase. Many additional cousins and extended family members.

Preceded in death by: grandparents, Mary (Kenosha) and James N. Sylvander; grandmother, Bonnie Simonson.

Services for James will be held:

• In Arkansas at Bella Vista Community Church, Bella Vista on June 22nd from 1-4pm
• In Wisconsin at Rowe Funeral Home, Luck, WI on June 24th from 1-4pm

Arrangements are entrusted to Rowe Funeral Home in Luck, 715-472-2444.

Last Update: Jun 22, 2022 1:51 pm CDT