James Roger Chirpich

Mankato Mortuary 1001 N. Riverfront Drive Mankato, Minnesota 56001 507-388-2202 James (Pops) Chirpich passed away Friday, December 5, 2014, in Mankato, at Hillcrest Care Center with family at his side. James was born on September 1, 1934 to Albert and Caroline (Troska) Chirpich. He graduated from Wells High School in 1954. In 1958 he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was honorably discharged. He spent his career in the hospitality business. He enjoyed a lifetime of bowling, Twins and Vikings games, and card playing. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Sydneye Sue; 13 children; 28 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; brother, Jerry; and 2 sisters, Angie Podobinsky and Cecelia Podobinsky. James was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Travis John; granddaughter, Shelly Plotz; one sister; and three brothers. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on December 11, 2014 at Hilltop United Methodist Church in Mankato. Interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis with full military honors on Dec. 12, 2014 at 11:45 a.m.