Obituary of James Franklin Preston

Preston, James Franklin "Jim"

Jim died on June 19, 2020 from heart complications at Methodist Hospital with his wife Judith at his side. He was born March 13, 1943 in Buffalo, NY to Albert and Mary Jane (Clarke) Preston. Jim graduated from Minnetonka High School in 1961 where he was editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, among other activities. He attended Carlton College in physics and the University of Minnesota in music. He played bassoon with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra for seven years, retiring in 1975. For 30 years he worked in information systems, retiring in 2005. Jim had a wide range of interests and was a voracious reader. He will be remembered for his quick wit, puns and ability to tell jokes. He and Judith attended International Double Reed Society Conferences for many years and, when traveling, visiting local zoos was a priority. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, brothers George T. of Auburn, CA and David A. of Snohomish, WA, a niece and three nephews. Celebration observances are pending. Arrangements by Cremation Society of MN, Edina Chapel. Memorials preferred to U of Minnesota Foundation, music department or donor's choice.