November 4, 1956 – Saturday, January 6, 2018
Service Information
NO SERVICES WILL BE HELD
Visitation Information
James P. McDonnell, III, 61, of Buffalo, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on November 4, 1956 in Altus, Oklahoma to James P. and Jean (Wandersee) McDonnell, Jr.
Jim graduated from Buffalo High School in 1975. He attended college at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.
Jim worked at the Wright County Journal-Press for several years before moving out to California to work for the Santa Barbara News-Press in advertising sales. He worked there for a few years. He returned home to Buffalo and worked at the Wright County Journal-Press and The Drummer as the advertising manager and co-owner.
Jim and Kristine Knese were united in marriage on February 24, 2001 in Lake Tahoe, Nevada.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, grilling, motorcycling, and raising Gordon Setter dogs.
Jim is survived by his wife of 16 years, Kris; children: Alexia (Tim) Dahlke of Plymouth, Philip Knese of Barnum, and Nicholas (Amber) Knese of Buffalo; five grandchildren: Gabriel Knese, Alivia Knese, Addie Dahlke, Blake Dahlke, and Vincent Knese; mother Jean McDonnell, of Buffalo; sister Cathy (Frank) Schiefelbein III, of Kimball; and brother Tom (Char) McDonnell, of Buffalo; brothers and sisters in law: Lynn (John) Dinsmore, of Maple Lake, Missy (Rob) Walton, of Pequot Lakes, and Michael (Kim) Pierson, of Brainerd; aunt Marilyn Legacy, of Surprise, Arizona; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father, James McDonnell, Jr.
A private inurnment will take place with his family.

To my close high school friend! So many fun memories. My heart grieves.
My heart is very heavy right now. I cannot express how sad I am over Jimmy’s passing. I have many fond memories of him. My condolences to his family.
My deepest sympathy for your heartbreaking loss.. Jim was much to young to leave this world yet.
Sending prayers & hugs your way… Love ya..
I am so saddened to hear about Jim’s death. He was a gentle spirit. My deepest sympathies to the family.
I will miss Jim’s quick wit and genuine smile that spread to those twinkling blue eyes. RIP old friend, and hope there are hunting grounds in heaven!
I was so saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a special person. My heartfelt sympathy to his family…
Dear Tom and Family – My deepest sympathy
So sad to hear of Jims passing.He will be missed
Great memories were made with Jim. Always a day brightener to talk to. Jim shall be missed. See you again my Friend.
I will miss Jim’s quick wit and genuine smile that spread to those twinkling blue eyes. RIP old friend, and hope there are hunting grounds in heaven!
We were so saddened to learn of the passing of Jimmy tonight. Jimmy III was way too young to leave us. Our sincere sympathy to the entire McDonnell family. Riti and Bob Sanderson
Jean and family;
Sad to her of Jim’s passing. Our prayers are with the family.
Betty and George
Our love, prayers and hugs to your dear family at this difficult time.
My deepest sympathy goes out to the family. He will always be with you in your hearts with all of the memories you have.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. He will be missed by so many. God bless.
Gonna miss the chances to try another wee dram of Single Malt with Jim at the Crow River place and talk about dogs, double guns, hunting trips and good books.
Thoughts and prayers to the Family, Cherish the memories.
So very sorry to hear about Jim passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our prayers are with your family.
Saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. Tons of fun memories from high school.
Tom, we are so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this tough time.
Jerry, Karen and Corey Fobbe