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James Junker Obituary
James William "Jim" Junker, 60, of Phoenix, went to meet his heavenly Father on April 12, 2014, passing away after a valiant fight with pancreatic cancer.
He is survived by parents, William H. and Ruth A. Junker of Phoenix.
Jim was born Nov. 30, 1953 in Portage Lakes, Ohio, and attended St. Vincent High School, in Akron, before moving to Phoenix in 1970.
He leaves his beloved wife, Grace Yeom Junker; four children, William (Therese) of Minneapolis, Naomi (Mark) Villanueva and Laura of Phoenix, and Andrew (Sarah) of Ann Arbor, Mich., and seven grandchildren.
Jim was a devoted stepfather to Aurora Pittario (Scott Lee), of Phoenix and SPC John Pittario, U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division, of Ft. Bragg, N.C. He also is survived by sisters, Jane Donohue, Jennifer Cockrum, Mary Anne Johnson, Gloria Brintnall; and brothers, John, Joseph and Peter.
A graduate of Arizona State University and ASU Law School, Jim practiced law as a trial lawyer in Arizona since 1979. Jim was a gifted amateur musician, playing the drums and singing with friends and family throughout his life and entertaining the patrons at Wild Bill's Saloon. His kindness and generosity earned him many loyal friends. Jim's family is grateful to all of them, especially Rick Kufner, who loyally supported Jim and Grace during Jim's illness.
A memorial was celebrated on Thursday, April 17, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. in the Green Acres Mortuary Chapel, 401 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale. Donations may be made on Jim's behalf to Hospice of the Valley , Tempe, Ariz. or to "The Fund" St. Vincent St. Mary, Akron, Ohio.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Junker
Sponsored by Akron Beacon Journal.
Michael McAllister
July 30, 2023
Jim was a good friend and a helpful collegue. His life was not the easiest even with all of his talents..I miss him and his sage advice. Bless you man!
M L McAllister
Leslie Foldy
April 28, 2014
Jim, you are greatly missed. Rest peacefully, friend.
April 22, 2014
I am Beth Vaughan Sanfillipo, a classmate of Jim's from Saint Francis. I am very saddened by Jim's death. I have been in touch with quite a few of our classmates and all are upset. Jim Leonino and Steve Nuspl were deeply touched. We were lucky to see him back in 1990 or 1992 when we had a Grade School Reunion. He came from AZ and surprised us all. So sorry that he suffered with pancreatic cancer. I wish all of the Junker Family best wishes at this time of sorrow. Glad my Mom (Rita Vaughan) contacted Jim's dad, Bill the other day. [email protected]
Sheree Schwartzkopf
April 20, 2014
It's Easter and I again, think of you. I heard some of the funny and touching memories of you from some of your family and friends. (giggle) You crack me up my friend! What an impression you placed in people's hearts! By the way, I can see why you're so proud of your family! Great people!
Yes, I know I talk to much, so I will hush for now. But only for a minute...
Is my minute up yet?
How 'bout now? Geez.... this being quiet stuff sucks!
Kathleen Hall
April 19, 2014
Joe, so sorry to hear you lost your brother, especially at such a young age. Praying for you and your family as you grieve the loss of James. It sounds as though he really lived life and helped people along the way.
Love, Kathleen
Sheree Schwartzkopf
April 16, 2014
Jim, I thank you for your friendship and all that you shared/taught me. You are the most kind, gentle and honorable man! You are loved and will be missed dearly, but I know we will all continue to feel your smiles and hugs! To Grace and all family and friends, thank you for sharing Jim with us! What a great gift you shared! Again, I thank you!
Mary Aschauer Rossell
April 15, 2014
Gerard High School Senior Class President. It has been a long time since 1972, but after a 42 year absence I pray for Jim and the wellbeing of his family.
April 15, 2014
Mary Anne,
I am very sorry for the loss of your brother. My prayers are with you and the family during this time. xoxoxo
Cynthia Clark Porter (St.V'68) [email protected]
Moira Green
April 15, 2014
God bless Jim Junker. He was a lively, fun, kind soul and the best boss I ever had. My condolences. Jim will be missed, but, he's with Jesus now and what better time than now at Easter. Love Moira
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Green Acres Mortuary & Cemetery401 North Hayden Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85257
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