James Tougas

An excellent son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather was called home on February 24, 2017. James Meddy Tougas was born on July 20, 1949 to Duane and Lucetta (Cole) Tougas in Pelican Rapids, MN. Jim was the oldest of eight children. He was a kind, loving and patient big brother to Len (Kathy), Fran (Mary), Jeff (Beth), Jay, Curt, Patricia (Toby), and Chris (Tresa). We will be forever grateful to have called him brother. After graduating high school in 1968, Jim joined the Army. Before being sent to Vietnam, he met and married the love of his life, Sandra, his Cajun Queen from Louisiana who taught him how to eat crawfish and peel shrimp. Together these two kids put together a pretty terrific life. They have two daughters, Shelly (Danny) Boudreaux and Sarah, along with five grandchildren, Kara (Zac), Grace, David, Sabrena and Breanna; and one great-granddaughter, Ella. You could not know Jim without knowing his love for his family. Jim was a family man first and foremost. His first career was as an architect. After seeing a need for veterans in the area, Jim returned to school as an older than average student and got his master’s in social work. He then set forth to help others, first as Executive Director for Churches United, then to the V.A. Hospital as a counselor, and finally, to the Vet Center as a counselor. After retiring from the government, Jim started driving bus for the West Fargo schools where he stayed until his passing. Jim loved all the children on his bus and they will miss their honorary grandpa. One of the greatest things about Jim is that he led by example. He was strong and true. He gave all and asked for nothing. Jim absolutely loved to go fishing with his daughters and spending time with them at their lake, Camper’s Cove. He cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchild. What a great legacy he leaves. Jim is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sandra; his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter; also his mother, all of his siblings, and his dog, Marley. Jim so missed his dad and we know they are together again, along with all of his grandparents and Sandra’s mom. The world is being watched over tonight, so if you see a twinkling star in the sky, take comfort that is Jim looking down. There will be a memorial service at 2:00 PM on Thursday, March 2, 2017 at Holy Cross Catholic Church, West Fargo with a visitation one hour prior.