James "Jim" Gronvold was born on November 18, 1952, to Harvey & Lenora Gronvold. He spent his youth on the farm in rural Byron. Jim graduated high school in 1971 from Byron Consolidated Schools. In 1973, Jim graduated from St Paul College in Culinary Arts; he worked for Rochester Schools until his retirement in May of 2019.

In 2015, he met the love of his life, Elaine Cokinos. They resided in Rochester until his death on April 27, 2024, at St. Marys Hospital.

Jim loved the Lord! He was active in many events at Christ Lutheran Church in Byron, especially IHN for the homeless and numerous musical presentations.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three older brothers, Charles, Seevert "Bub", and Daniel (infant death); two sisters, Verlene and Alice Gronvold. He is survived by one older sister, Carol Woodward.

A celebration of Life service will be held at Christ Lutheran Church on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Steve Rheingans officiating. Visitation one hour prior. Burial will be at East St. Olaf Cemetery in rural Byron, MN.