Obituary of James R. Woods

Age 73, of Mendota Heights, MN. Born an eternal optimist June 15, 1944 in Midland, MI and grew up in Cleveland, OH. He graduated from Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills, OH in 1961 at the age of 16, and from the College of St. Thomas in St. Paul. He was the founder and owner of Awoods Rubber Co. and All Formed Products and was an expert in custom molding of rubber and plastic parts. He was truly passionate about his work, as evidenced by always having sample parts in his pockets to show everyone what he did. He took pride in keeping his lawn immaculate, and he loved spending time with his 4 children and 7 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents Anthony and Catherine Woods. Survived by his wife of 52 years Kathie (Schmitt); a daughter Jennifer (Tom) Boyles; 3 sons Timothy (Debbie), John (Andrea), and James; grandchildren Meghan and Michael, Liam and Ethan, Sophia, Charlotte and Elliot; sister Casey (Jim) Bare; and many loving relatives and friends. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. Mass of Christian Burial 11AM Thursday, January 11 at the Church of St. Joseph, 1154 Seminole Ave., West St. Paul. Visitation 4-7PM Wednesday at Willwerscheid West-Heights Chapel, 235 Wentworth Ave. W., West St. Paul, 651-457-7938 and at church 1 hour before the Mass. Memorials preferred.