James Kress

Jim passed away on February 10, 2011 at the Hillsboro Medical Center Nursing Home at the age of 90.

Jim was born on March 13, 1920, the son of George and Maria (McMaster) Kress in Divide County, ND. He grew up in this area and received his education. Jim left home at age 17 and began working in Washington and Idaho. He proudly served his country during WW II in the Army. Following his discharge, he returned to North Dakota where he attended Hanson Mechanic Trade School in Fargo where he studied Auto Body Repair. Jim was united in marriage to Eleanor Nelson on November 1, 1948. They first made their home in Grand Forks before moving to Hillsboro in 1949. In Hillsboro, Jim started Hillsboro Body Shop, which he owned and operated until his retirement in 1983, which his sons now operate. After retirement Jim kept very active helping area farmers and also spent many hours working at the Hillsboro Park.

Jim is survived by his sons, Mike (Barb) Kress of Hillsboro; Doug (Patty) Kress of Eau Claire, WI; and Bob Kress of Hillsboro; his grandchildren - OJ (Ellie) Kress, Nikki (Ryan) Braaten, Abbie (Ross) Minnichsoffer, Katie Kress, Paul Kress, Amy (JJ) Fankhanel, Becca Kress, and Mike Kress; and 10 great grandchildren. Also surviving are his 6 siblings. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Eleanor; and his son, Jeff.