James Louis Karalus

Age 77, of Maplewood, Minnesota, died suddenly of unexpected health complications on November 27, 2021.​He is preceded in death by his son, Patrick; an infant sister, Audrey; his cousin Herb; and his beloved cat, Suzie.​Survived by his wife, Sharon, of 53 years; his sons, Christopher (Jeanne), Brian, and Daniel (Susan); four grandsons, Calvin, Roger, Harper and Charles; his brothers, Kevin (Mary) and Greg (Carol); sister Carol; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.​Jim was born in Duluth, MN to Louis and Rose (Karboviak) Karalus on May 6, 1944. He grew up on a farm and graduated from Central High School in Duluth in 1962.Jim attended University of Duluth for 2 years and then transferred to University of Minnesota to finish a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He graduated in 1967 and got a job with Northern States Power. He worked in a power plant before moving to offices in Minneapolis. He later worked for NRG Energy until he retired in 2003 after 36 years.​He married Sharon Hilgart on September 7, 1968. They moved to Maplewood, MN and raised 4 sons, Christopher, Patrick, Brian and Daniel. He was involved in numerous of his sons’ activities, which included coaching his kids’ youth sports and going on scouting trips. He became an avid runner and ran Grandma’s marathon in under 4 hours. His job and career took him to places all over the world including South America, Australia, China, Indonesia, Europe and Russia.​Jim was very generous, lending a helping hand to anyone who needed it, opening his door to anyone who wanted to stay and offering food and drink. He helped many families in need, including shoveling the snow for the family next door. He had a way with animals, once raising a calf that followed him wherever he went. His cats also loved him and he missed them deeply when they were gone. He never met a stranger and easily made friends from all walks of life, always with a smile on his face and an infectious laugh. Jim was the patriarch of the family and will be missed. The second you met Jim, you were greeted with a smile, a warm greeting and a genuine curiosity in having a chat with you.​Funeral service 1 PM Friday, December 17 at MUELLER-BIES FUNERAL HOME-ROSEVILLE, 2130 N. Dale St @ County Rd B. Gathering/Visitation from 12-1 PM Friday.​Celebration of Life to follow funeral service from 3-7 PM at TIFFANY SPORTS LOUNGE, 2501 Ford Pkwy, St. Paul 55116. Please come, have a drink, share a story/memory about Jim and celebrate his life.​Memorials preferred to Smile Train, Tunnel to Towers or Union Gospel Mission.