Willard James Mindrup

Mr. W. James “Jim” Mindrup, age 90, died September 22, 2010 at his residence in Atlanta, GA. Mr. Mindrup, a native of Edwardsville, Illinois, moved to Atlanta in 1969. His life’s work was spent in areas related to Real Estate. For 30 years, he was a builder/developer in Illinois and prior to retirement he owned and operated Benchmark Commercial Brokers in Atlanta.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Evelyn Fisher Mindrup to whom he was married for almost 25 years and a son, James W. Mindrup of Bradenton, Florida. He is survived by a devoted wife, June K. Mindrup; 2 daughters, Sue Bockholt of Dallas, TX and Cheryl Brinson Philip, Arlington TX.; daughter-in-law, Kathy Mindrup, Bradenton, FL., 8 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren. Also surviving are nephews; Bruce Mindrup Kathy, Jerseyville, Illinois and Bill Mindrup Gerry, Edwardsville, Illinois.

Son of William H. and Marie Little Mindrup, he attended Blackburn University and graduated from Middle Tennessee State University prior to an appointment to the Aviation Cadet Training Program during World War II.

He was a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason and a Shriner since 1945; an Elder in the Presbyterian Church, member of Peachtree Presbyterian Church for 41 years, active in Boy Scout Programs in Illinois and a member of various wood craft associations.

He Moved to Atlanta following the 1967 death of his first wife, the Mother of his 3 children. In September of 1969 he married June.

In retirement, Mr. Mindrup made over 8, 000 kaleidoscopes, many of which were given to children suffering with cancer in hospitals and Ronald McDonald Houses.

Jim was well known during his retirement years for his wood crafting skills and his projects can be found in homes of friends and neighbors. His “specialty” became kaleidoscopes which he made for 26 years.

His body will be cremated. A Memorial Service will be held on September 30th at 10:30 am in the Wilson Chapel of Peachtree Presbyterian Church, the place where he and June were married 41 years ago. Following the Memorial Service friends are invited to the Mindrup home for a celebration of his life. In Lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a favorite charity.