James Edward Huegerich

James “Jim” Edward Huegerich was an honorable husband, devoted father, fun-loving grandfather, loyal neighbor and friend, and wise ombuds. He left this earthly world at the age of 73 on February 7, 2022 after a courageous journey with leukemia. 

He was born to Phyllis and Paul Huegerich on December 26, 1948 in Detroit, MI.  Jim is survived by his siblings George, Thomas (Jane), and Cathy (Ali) Ibrahim. After growing up in the Midwest, Jim graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Lawrence University.  He served as an officer in the United States Air Force where he met his wife of 49 ½ years, Patricia Geary, while stationed in Del Rio, TX. 

Jim and Tricia moved to Chapel Hill for graduate school where Jim earned a Master’s Degree in Education. Jim spent the next 37 years developing and growing the Chapel Hill Police Department Crisis Unit.  He then established an ombuds office for the Town of Chapel Hill. 

Jim and Tricia raised four children, Amanda Huegerich of Richmond, VA, Anneka Huegerich (Brad Howes) of Chapel Hill, Jordan Bailey (James) of Midlothian, VA, and Reed Huegerich (Bryn) of Ithaca, NY. Jim was proud grandfather (“Poppy”) to Hannah, Abby, Brooke, Clay, Lily, Noelle, Eloise, Jackson, Geary, and Quinn. Jim is also survived by bonus daughter, Tina Ongoro, of Carrboro, and her children, Christina and Joseph.

Jim made a tremendous positive impact in his community and to anyone whose path he crossed.  He will be remembered for his witty puns, biking around town in his yellow jacket and fanny pack with saddle bags full of groceries, and for his patience, wise words, ability to find common ground, and his resolute faith in the Lord.

We hope you carry on Jim’s legacy by planting a flower, introducing yourself to a stranger, spreading kindness, and listening, truly listening, to someone who shares their story with you.

DATE CHANGED- James's Celebration of Life will be held April 30, 2022 at 1:00 PM at Chapel Hill Bible Church. 
 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to:

·        Dispute Settlement Center 302 Weaver Street, Carrboro, NC 27510 

http://www.disputesettlement.org/james-huegerich 

·        Triangle Land Conservancy 514 S Duke St, Durham,NC 27701 www.triangleland.org/give/donate

·        UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplantation

https://give.unc.edu/hfdonate?p=jimh&s=LCCCOT22T9GU39