July 11, 1938 - January 15, 2025
Bradenton, Florida - James "Jim" Frederick Hodgkinson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on January 15, 2025. He was 86 years old. Born on July 11, 1938 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Milton "Mike" and Dorothy Hodgkinson, Jim lived a life enriched by dedication, love, and service to his community and family.
Jim graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Drake University where he was active in Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. He then embarked on a 39 year career with Walgreens proudly serving as both a pharmacist and a store manager. Jim received numerous awards during his tenure and was admired for his professional integrity to his colleagues and customers alike.
Jim was highly active throughout his entire life from childhood sports and Yo-Yo competitions to adult softball, handball and racquetball. He enjoyed experiencing the outdoors spending time boating, fishing and especially camping. He could often be found building something or repairing anything. A lover of music, Jim taught himself to play the piano, many times playing songs by ear. He was a world traveler and adventurer, often creating his own experiences by taking the roads less traveled. He delighted in amusement parks, riding roller coasters well into his late 70's. Jim was clever, witty, and full of wisdom and knowledge gained through his life's experiences.
Along with his wife Karen, Jim was a devoted Catholic and a member of Our Lady of the Angels and later, Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church. He served as a Eucharistic Minister, led men's bible studies and was a money counter. His faith was an integral part of his life, providing him strength and comfort through his many years.
Jim also served on the Resident Council including the Presidency during his time at Discovery Village, where he and Karen resided the last two years. His goal was to help better the lives of his neighbors.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Milton "Mike" and Dorothy Hodgkinson and his brother Richard "Dick" Hodgkinson.
He is survived by his loving wife Karen Hodgkinson who shared 63 happy years with him; his children Michael Hodgkinson of Yankeetown, FL, Elaine Alexander of Bradenton, FL, Linda Mason (Ed) of Lakeland, FL, and Steven Hodgkinson (Christin) of Bradenton, FL. He is also survived by his sister, Judy Simpson of Birmingham, AL and many nieces and nephews. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren Benjamin (Heather), Savannah (Spencer), Sydney (Keagan), Sarah, Spencer, Thomas, Mason, Caroline and Connor and his great grandchild, Rory.
A Funeral Mass will be held to honor Jim's memory at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church in Sarasota, FL, on Monday, February 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of his remarkable life, to share stories, and to find solace in each other's company.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the James and Karen Hodgkinson Family Fund through the Manatee Community Foundation, 2820 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL, 34212.
