James W. Renswick

James William Renswick, 66, of Woodbury, Minnesota, beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2026, at St. John’s Hospital after a courageous ten‑year battle with cancer. His wife, Lori, held his hand through every step of his final journey, just as she had throughout their life together.

Born on December 14 to James and Mary Ann (Ramczyk) Renswick, Jim grew up in Winona as the youngest of three children. To those who loved him, he was “Myrtle” A nickname that stuck because it captured his humor, his charm, and the easy way he fit into people’s hearts. He shared his childhood with his siblings, Michael Renswick and Patricia (Renswick) Thrune, forming bonds that remained strong and steady throughout his life.

Jim graduated from Cotter High School in 1978, carrying with him memories of the boat houses, Stone Circle, and the friendships that shaped his youth. His artistic talent led him to Wisconsin Technical Institute in La Crosse, where he earned a degree in graphic design. Art wasn’t just a skill for Jim, it was a way of seeing the world, a quiet gift he carried with him always.

His work ethic began early. At just 14, Jim took a job at the Hurry Back pool hall in Winona, racking pool balls for customers and absorbing the stories of the older players. Those long hours sparked a lifelong love of the game. Over the years, Jim became an exceptional pool player, competing in leagues across Minnesota and Wisconsin and earning trophies that reflected both his talent and his joy for competition.

Sports were woven into Jim’s life from childhood. His grandfather Max was his coach, mentor, and role model who taught him baseball, wrestling, and the values that would guide him forever: honesty, integrity, respect, and hard work. Jim excelled in nearly everything he tried: pool, darts, bowling, baseball, golf, softball, swimming, and fishing. Summers in Winona often meant golf outings with his uncle Frank and his brother Michael, and he treasured golf trips with friends Joe Pomeroy and Tom Schniepp whenever he could.

After college, Jim worked as a graphic artist in Wisconsin and Winona, later bartending at the Winona Athletic Club, where his humor and kindness made him a favorite among patrons.

Jim’s life changed forever when he married Lori (Pelowski) Renswick on October 22, 1988. Though they had grown up only two blocks apart, their connection blossomed later in life. Lori was drawn to Jim’s handsome smile, gentle patience, and the kindness that defined him. Together, they built a home in Woodbury and welcomed two children, Miles and Mackenzie, who became the center of Jim’s world.

Jim was a devoted stay‑at‑home father for several years, a role he embraced wholeheartedly. He attended every game, helped with every school project, drove the kids to and from school, and made time for daily conversations about their lives. He passed on his love of sports to both children, who excelled in baseball, basketball, and softball. Family trips “up north” became cherished traditions filled with fishing, swimming, playing pool, and golfing.

When the kids grew older, Jim returned to work as a bus driver for the South Washington School District, where he spent 11 years caring for the students he transported each day.

Jim faced his cancer diagnosis in 2016 with remarkable courage. He refused to let the disease define him, rarely speaking of the treatments he endured. He wanted people to see him as himself, not as a patient. Jim was deeply grateful for his oncologist, Dr. James Shanks, whose honesty, compassion, and steadfast care guided him through ten years of treatment.

After retiring at age 62, Jim and Lori embraced life more fully, traveling often because “life was too short.” They visited Laughlin, Las Vegas, and Reno, enjoying casinos, resorts, and time together. They frequently traveled with Jim’s sister Pat, proudly calling themselves “the traveling trio.” Jim and Lori also made time for trips with just the two of them, continuing to nurture their marriage with intention and love.

Jim’s greatest joy was his children. He admired Miles’ determination and work ethic, celebrating his achievement of becoming a Doctor of Pharmacy. He shared a special artistic bond with Mackenzie, proudly declaring her the best tattoo artist he had ever known, deeply inspired by her creativity and imagination.

Jim and Lori would have celebrated 38 years of marriage on October 22, 2026. Their marriage was built on love, respect, trust, friendship, and unwavering loyalty. They lived their vows fully, supporting each other through sickness and health, and their devotion was evident to all who knew them.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mary Ann Renswick; his aunts, Rita Ramczyk and Delores Tingley; his sister‑in‑law, Sue Duerinck; his brothers‑in‑law, Tom and Jamie Pelowski; and his grandparents. He is survived by his wife, Lori; his children, Miles and Mackenzie; his siblings, Patricia (Bob) Thrune and Michael (Perry) Renswick; and his extended Pelowski family: Chris (Tom) Wieczorek, Lou Duerinck, Rick (Pam) Pelowski, Scott (Becky) Pelowski, Lisa Pelowski‑Black, and Joe (Patti) Pelowski. Jim also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, all of whom he cared for deeply and took great joy in watching grow into their own lives.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 3–4 p.m. at Watkowski–Mulyck Funeral Home in Winona, with a time of remembrance at 4 p.m. Burial will take place Thursday, October 8 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Jim’s family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Shanks, Accent Home Hospice, Accent GIP Hospice, St. John’s Hospital, and Woodwinds Cancer Care Center for their compassionate care.

Jim lived with kindness, humor, courage, and devotion. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friends he loved, and the memories he created. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.