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James Greenwood, age 73, of Jamestown, died peacefully in his sleep at his home on 6 September 2015. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Annabelle Greenwood; and two sisters, Gretchen Weber (Tom) of Ames, Iowa and Martha Spaans (Ed) of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Ray is survived by his wife, Marsha Sovada, son, Thomas Greenwood (Marian Curie), daughter, Anne Greenwood Rioseco (Mauricio), two granddaughters, Eva and Lucia Rioseco, and one sister, Angela Seitz (Robert).
Ray was born in St. Paul, MN; his family moved back to Jamestown when he was an infant. He graduated high school from St. John’s Academy; attended St. John’s University and North Dakota State University for his undergraduate education and received a Master’s degree in Biology from South Dakota State University. In 1966, he returned to Jamestown for a job as a Research Scientist at Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. Ultimately, he became internationally known for his groundbreaking research on nesting waterfowl and predators of the prairies.
Ray was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to hunt, fish, hike, train his dogs, and share the outdoor experience with friends and family. He was an avid organic gardener, beekeeper, and passionate horticulturalist. Ray was an exceptionally skilled woodworker and artisan; his projects included a diverse array of creative disciplines. He had an unquenchable curiosity. He loved the creative process and was innovative in his designs.
Ray was an active member in the community. He served on the YMCA Board of Directors, as Supervisor and Rural Fire Director for Homer Township, and as a president of the ND Archeological Association. He volunteered his services to JRMC Hospice, the Buffalo Museum, The Arts Center, and the YMCA. In Ray’s eyes, everyone he met was special and his generosity had no limit. He leaves a broad legacy among those he loved and mentored. He was known for his quick wit, playfulness, engaging smile, and twinkle in his eyes. He knew how to ‘laugh loud’.
In 2006 Ray was diagnosed with Multiple System Atrophy, a devastating neurological disorder. Despite the disabilities the disease caused, Ray showed those around him how to face difficulties in life with humor, courage, tenacity, strength and the love of family and friends.
Memorials preferred to JRMC Hospice or The Arts Center, Jamestown, ND.
A Service and Celebration at Raymond’s Home will begin at 2:00 p.m., Monday, September 14, 2015. Call 701-252-1987 for directions.
The family will receive guests at Williams-Lisko Funeral Chapel, Jamestown from 6:00 p.m., to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, September 13, 2015.
An online guest book is available at www.liskofuneralchapel.com.