Jim Huge

Jim Huge lived an extraordinary life, and he leaves so many of us with cherished memories. His family and friends will have an opportunity to share their stories of Jim and his impact at a celebration of his life on Oct. 30 in Reno, Nevada. All are welcome. The event will be held at 10 a.m. at the Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel, One South Lake Street, Reno, Nevada 89501.

Those who would like to participate virtually may attend via Zoom by following this link: https://us 02web.zoom.us /j/83005267250?

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The ZOOM event will begin shortly after 10 a.m. Pacific Time.

Jim Huge, 84, died quietly at home on Sept. 1, 2024, in Reno, Nevada.

He was born in Deshler, Nebraska, to Arthur and Dorothea Huge, and spent his youth in Superior, Holdredge and Lincoln, Nebraska. He was the middle child of three high-energy boys and excelled at getting into trouble, working hard and making friends. He participated fully in athletic, academic and community activities and was a standout athlete in football and basketball. He played both sports at the University of Nebraska. In 1962, he was recognized as an Academic All-American.He battled through many injuries as a player, but he loved his teammates like family and put everything on the line for them. College life was a special time for Jim. He formed lifelong friendships, particularly with his Phi Kappa Psi fraternity brothers and their families. After graduation, he remained active with Nebraska football by providing the radio broadcast of the games. He remained a lifelong fan and supporter of Nebraska athletics.

Jim was an accomplished educational leader, serving as principal of several schools in Lincoln, Nebraska, and Manhattan, Kansas. His fondest memories were as principal of Lincoln East High School, where he worked with extraordinary colleagues to bring about meaningful changes to personalize student learning. He served as superintendent of schools in Natrona County, Wyoming, and Cherry Creek School District in Colorado, and for the past 40 years, he consulted with many types of organizations, but primarily schools and school districts across the country and around the world. He helped them develop their leaders, govern wisely, focus on student needs and outcomes and build and strengthen relationships. Through this work, he touched the lives of thousands and amplified administrators' efectiveness in making a diference for students.

Jim was an avid learner, a compelling storyteller, a skilled public speaker and a resourceful facilitator. He found great joy in coaching and mentoring individual leaders and celebraing their successes.

Relaing to people was Jim's superpower. He was genuinely interested in all people, no matter how fleeting the contact and demonstrated his care and authenticity in every interaction. He really got to know each individual's personal stories and particular needs. He remembered those details and sought ways to help everyone accomplish their goals. He cared deeply about making those around him feel seen and valued. During his frequent travels, and, unfortunately, frequent hospital trips because of migraines, he befriended every airline, hotel and hospital staff member he came in contact with. He was thankful for the many folks who connected with him and looked out for him over the years. He was an exceptional connector of people and brought together people who could help each other. As a result, Jim formed lasting friendships and he will be deeply missed by many.

More than anything else, Jim loved his family. He was affectionate, generous, thoughtul and silly. He will be profoundly missed by his wife, Laura; daughter, Joni Knostman and her husband, Chuck; stepson, Chris MacMahon and his wife Kristi; granddaughters, Courtney Knostman and her husband, Trevor Brandt, Hanna Schmitt and her husband, Henry, and Hope MacMahon; grandsons, Jake Knostman and his wife, Julia Jones, Lucas MacMahon, and Kaden MacMahon; brother, Cal Huge and his wife, Libussa; brother-in-law, Greg Schillo and his wife, Marta VanLandingham; sister-in-law, Reba Huge; and great-granddaughter, Ellie Schmitt.

Jim's son, Todd Huge, and brother, Harry Huge, preceded him in death.

For those who wish to make contributions that reflect Jim's lifelong commitment to children, please consider donating to nonprofit organizations that align with his values, such as: Jim Huge Leadership Scholarship, c/o North Ed Foundation,880 Parsons Road, Universe City, Michigan 4986; National College; and The Children's Cabinet of Nevada.