James (Jim) Dunbar Flannery, 81, formerly of Austin, Minn., passed away from a heart attack Sept. 21, 2011, in Kailua, Hawaii.

An outdoor gathering of family and friends was held at Jim and Jo’s home Sept. 25, 2011. Jim was born Dec. 3, 1929, in Austin, to Leonard and Margaret Flannery.

Jim served in the Air Force after graduation from Austin High School in 1948. After military service, he attended and graduated from Austin Junior College and the University of Minnesota. He taught in Austin and Fremont, Neb. Upon returning to Austin he was a teacher, administrator, and ultimately President of Austin Junior College. He was proud of his work with the college, the senior citizens and the community. His avocation was remodeling his home and building an octagonal, two-story cabin with his son, John, and many family members.

He loved playing cards with old friends and was available for bridge at the drop of a hat. Jim was a doer who worked well with people. His leadership and friendship will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne of 24 years; sons, James (Cecilia), John (Nancy); daughters, Cyndi Myers (John), Peggy Swanson (Bill); sisters, Mary Johnsen (Michael Bill) Nancy Pedersen (Kenneth); stepsons, David and Doug Pertz; stepdaughter, Cathy Carter; 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by sister, Patricia Brooks (Richard).

A scholarship is being developed with the Riverland Community College Foundation in Austin to honor Jim’s memory and his many years as President of Austin J.C. (now Riverland). Memorials are preferred to:

The Jim Flannery Memorial Scholarship Fund

Riverland Community College Foundation

1900 8th Ave. NW, Austin, MN 55912.