Muskopf, James R., EdD. Fortified with the Sacraments of the Catholic Church, Jim passed away on July 5th at Nazareth Living Center, surrounded by family. Born on July 14, 1943, Jim was predeceased by his parents Carl and Helen (Doerner) Muskopf; father-in-law George Willman, mother-in-law Myrtle (Zollner) Willman, and brother-in-law Robert Willman. Jim is survived by his wife, Ruth Ann (Willman); his brother, Donald, and sister-in-law, Margaret (Fower); his son, Christopher, and daughter-in-law, Nicole (Buehre); and his sister-in-law Robyn (Waters) Willman. Jim was a proud grandfather to Tristan and Eleanor. Jim was also an uncle, great uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend to many.

A lifelong resident of St. Louis, Jim attended Froebel Elementary and Roosevelt High School. Jim earned his teacher’s certification from Harris-Stowe College, a Master’s Degree in Education from Michigan State, and an Education Specialist Degree and Doctor of Education Degree from St. Louis University. Jim began his teaching career in the St. Louis Public School District, but spent nearly 30 years in various roles as an employee of the Mehlville School District. Following his retirement from Mehlville in 1996, Jim served as an adjunct professor at Lindenwood University and St. Louis University before spending 10 years with the Graduate School at Fontbonne University. Jim devoted extensive time to youth athletics in the St. Louis area, helping found, direct, and/or coach in programs such as the Hi-Y program at the Kirkwood YMCA, the Carondelet Sunday Morning Athletic Club, Economy Fenton and Johnny Mac Fenton American Legion baseball, the South County Youth Sports Association (Hustler basketball and Johnny Mac baseball), and the St. Louis Amateur Baseball Association.

Jim’s wish was to have his body donated to medical science. Therefore, a memorial mass will be held on Saturday, July 15th, at 10:00 am at St. Margaret Mary Alacoque (4900 Ringer Road, 63129). A reception will follow in the Parish Center. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association (9370 Olive Blvd, 63132; www.alz.org) or to the Nazareth Living Center (2 Nazareth Lane, 63129; www.nazarethlivingcenter.com).