Edward James "Jim" McIntyre

Edward James “Jim” McIntyre, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away from health complications on Friday, August 22, 2025, at his home in Battle Ground, Washington. Jim is preceded in death by his father, Edward, his mother Dolores, and his son, Peter. He is survived by his wife Peggy and his faithful canine companion, Loki. Jim is also survived by his sons Patrick, Andrew, and Brian, and their families, including Angie, Liam, Graham, Kristen, Finn, and Sean, as well as his sisters, Lynne and Gerrianne and their families. Born in Grand Forks, North Dakota, on January 29, 1951, Jim quickly made himself indispensable on the family farm, helping to raise and care for animals, tend to the land, and assist his parents with all manner of chores. Known as “Swede” for his white-blonde hair, Jim endeared himself to all he met from an early age. Cousins and childhood friends remember him as a kind and caring kid who introduced them to baby lambs, stood up for them and cheered them on, and always had creative ideas for having a little old-fashioned fun. Those treated to Jim’s stories from childhood know that all dogs were called Suzie, penny candy was a favorite treat, and a fishing trip with the big guys was the ultimate reward for hard work. Jim’s early lessons in the rewards of working hard continued into his college years at Minot State University, where he studied business administration, played on the football team, and met lifelong friends and his wife of 52 years, Peggy Friedenbach. Jim continued to champion the university throughout his lifetime, providing financial support and frequently returning to campus to speak and connect with students and staff. After graduating and proposing marriage to Peggy, Jim determined a full-time paid job would be helpful, and he accepted a position as a junior analyst from Northern States Power (NSP) in Minot. Starting from scratch, Jim moved up in the ranks of NSP (later Xcel Energy), moving from Minnesota to Wisconsin as CEO of NSP-Wisconsin and back to Minnesota as CFO at Xcel’s Twin Cities headquarters. While Jim carried out countless financial and strategic feats during his career, he rarely spoke of them—rather, Jim liked to share stories about the people who surrounded him at work. At the office as in life, Jim was a developer of leaders, a believer in the underdog, and a man wholly dedicated to honesty and hard work. Jim later led Otter Tail Power in Fergus Falls, MN, and eventually retired with Peggy to their home in Battle Ground, WA, after a series of brief stops along the way. Jim’s loved ones will remember him as a big kid with an ever-present gap-toothed smile, a fisherman who never tired of the hunt for the big one, a teller of stories, a lover of grilled meat and hater of sweet potatoes, a kind man unless playing a game of cards, and the most likely to feed candy bars to the family dogs. Most of all, Jim will be remembered as a loving and fiercely dedicated family man, and that his kids and grandkids were his and Peggy’s greatest accomplishment. Proud of each son and grandchild in a different way and for different reasons, Jim’s family knew that he loved them, even if he didn’t always say it. He didn’t need to say it. He lived it. Though Jim can no longer be seen or heard in this place, his spirit continues through the values he shared with everyone he met: Work hard. Be kind. Love life. Jim has requested no memorial service be held. Jim’s immediate family will gather to remember him, per his wishes. If you are moved to do so, please honor Jim’s life and legacy by donating to your favorite charitable organization.

Edward James "Jim" McIntyre

January 29, 1951 - August 22, 2025