James Aiden Maunu, 17, passed on 6/19/2022 after succumbing to complications with having type one diabetes. James is survived by his mother, Marci Schroeder; Father, Jesse Maunu (wife Gina); Grandfather, George Simonson; Grandmother, Deanna Maunu; Siblings, Emma, Emmalyn, Kooper, Karina, and Maklin; Aunts and Uncles, Mick (Chris) Simonson, Andrew Maunu, Marcus (Abby) Simonson; his cousin Chase; along with many additional cousins and extended family members. James is preceded in death by Grandparents, Mary (Kenosha) and James N. Sylvander; and Grandmother, Bonnie Simonson.

Born in Portsmouth Virginia, James was first diagnosed in 2019 and was a true warrior. He had many nicknames; Jimmy, JimJam, and SlimJim were a few family favorites. While the Tiger teammates frequently called him Wisconsin and Mono, in the 9 ^th grade, they also enjoyed calling him Cheese Boy, though it was often followed by the team doing extra workouts as a "friendly" punishment.

James had a heart bigger than this world has ever seen. He would help anyone who needed it and never expected anything in return. He was a truly selfless young man. Everyone who knew James would always speak of his kindness, helpfulness, and how he was always a great friend. James' big personality and open sense of humor made anyone around him laugh – usually at his own expense.

He found love in so much of the world around him – including football, fishing, music, LEGO, amusement parks, and spending time with his friends and family. Football was by far his focus and drive in life. He would some days begrudgingly, get up early for 6 and 7am work outs just to be there early to help his peers. He continuously strived to improve his game and would watch film after with his mom, talking about what he needed to do differently or how someone else might have affected his moves. Fishing was his peaceful place. He didn't care who tagged along, or if he went by himself. His brother Kooper's favorite memory is of them going fishing and Kooper always catching at least one fish, but Jimmy catching at least five. His LEGO collection and patience to build unique constructions expanded to working on small engines. James enjoyed every summer trip to his Grandfather's because it always included wrench time – which evolved to tinkering on projects at home. His mom, sister Emma, and several friends enjoyed attending various music concerts with him at Virginia Beach Amphitheater in Virginia and Walmart AMP, as well as other venues in Arkansas. James expressed interest in many careers over his short time on earth. From being a LEGO designer, small engine mechanic, to Sports Medicine and Nutrition – whichever path he chose, he would have been an exemplary addition to the industry.

His endless love for his siblings was shown through his patience. No matter the situation, James always took the time to listen to his brother and sisters and show them his best self. Kooper was always in need of a good laugh and video game buddy – and James always came through for his little brother. Karina loved being spoiled by James taking her for trips to the store or treats like Sonic slushes.

There is no doubt James will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family respectfully requests that those attending the visitations wear their favorite band's t-shirt, Bentonville apparel, Green Bay Packer apparel, or general casual wear.

Visitation for James will be Wednesday, June 22 ^nd ,  from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Bella Vista Community Church, 75 East Lancashire Boulevard, Bella Vista, Arkansas 72714. A second visitation will be Friday, June 24 ^th from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Rowe Funeral Home, 206 2 ^nd Avenue East, Luck Wisconsin 54853.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory.  On-line condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.