The Fergus Falls Daily Journal

James (Jim) Albert Kimple, 94, of Dent, died on July 11, 2012, at home, surrounded by family.

Jim was born in Woodbine, Iowa, on June 26, 1918, to Dallas and Freda (Vogel) Kimple. During high school he worked during the summer as a foreman for crews of students and hobos picking beans near DeKalb, Ill., and as a railroad gandy dancer.

Jim graduated from Parson’s College in Fairfield, Iowa, in 1941.

He met Harriet Merrill there, and they married in 1942. Following three years of service in the Army Air Corps during World War II, earning a Bronze Star, Jim and Harriet settled in the East and raised a family of four children, James, Jr., of Cornwall, N.Y., John, of Dent, Eric, of Freemont, Ohio, and Joan, of Nashville, Tenn.

Jim was a long-time educator. He taught high school, earned a doctorate from Columbia University, and became a school superintendent.

Jim spent most of his career in South Brunswick, N.J., where he was superintendent for 27 years. He was recognized for innovative programs.

Jim was passionate about the needs of disadvantaged and special needs students. He was a longtime proponent of outdoor education, organizational development and staff support.

Jim had a second career as a resort owner on Dead Lake in Dent, after buying the business from his mother.

Kimp’s Kamp resort has numerous customers who have been vacationing at Dead Lake for as many as four generations.

Harriet and Jim were together until her death in 2007.

Surviving Jim are his children; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and his brother, Jack. He will leave a large space to fill in the lives of his immediate family and his many nieces, nephews and friends.

A family memorial service is planned at 2 p.m. at Richville United Methodist Church. Those who wish to make a donation in Jim’s memory may contribute to The Dead Lake Association Education Fund: PO Box 127, Richville, MN 56576.

Schoeneberger Funeral Home in Perham is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be sent online at www.schoenebergerfuneralhome.com