A LIFE WELL LIVED! SEMPER FI! James "Jim" Peter Bovis, 86, of Tampa, Florida, fell asleep in the Lord on August 11, 2023. He was born in 1936 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, to his loving and adored parents Peter and Estelle Bovis. After attending four years at St. James School for Boys and Shattuck Military Academies in Faribault, MN, Jim graduated from Grand Rapids Senior High School. Jim then proudly and honorably served in the United States Marine Corps. After completing his military service Jim obtained a bachelors degree in business administration from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Jim married Theodora Pappas in 1962 with whom he spent 61 wonderful years. They had three children: Scott James Bovis (preceded him in death), Zachary James Bovis (Tampa, FL), and Andrea Theodora Bovis (Chicago, IL). Other beloved survivors include brothers-in-law and sisters in-law, nephews, nieces, great nephews and great nieces, cousins, godchildren, and many friends. Jims only brother Thomas "Tom" Bovis, Duluth, MN preceded him in death. Jim began his professional career with Minnesota Power & Light in Duluth, MN in 1967 and held various senior management positions during his 28-year tenure, which included assignments in Sandstone, MN and Cloquet, MN, where he retired in 1995. Jim and his wife Theodora relocated to Tampa, FL in 1999. Jim was very active throughout his career serving in leadership roles and on numerous boards and commissions, including the Fond du Lac Community College Steering Committee and Foundation Board, Northland Foundation Board, State of Minnesota Tourism Board (appointed by the Governor of Minnesota), City National Bank where he was a director, Cloquet Development & Industrial Corporation, Carlton County Economic Development Commission, Minnesota Arrowhead Regional Development Commission & Corporation Board, Minnesota Arrowhead Association, School Board Blue Ribbon Commission, Mitchell Scholarship Fund Commission, Cloquet Chamber of Commerce, Parish Council Board of the Twelve Holy Apostoles Greek Orthodox Church, American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), Habitat for Humanity, United Way, Junior Achievement, Red Cross & Boy Scouts Fund Raising, and several other philanthropic endeavors. Jim was also a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Rotary Club, AAD Temple Shriners, Viking Shrine Club, Euclid Masonic Lodge, and The National Rifle Association. During his time in Florida, Jim was dedicated to the citizens he served while holding elected office in the Longleaf Homeowners Association, Inc., and as a Supervisor on The Board of Supervisors for Meadow Pointe II Community Development District (CDD). On his own initiative, Jim successfully initiated the process of developing the CDD Board of Supervisors and served his community continuously for over 20 years. Jim received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions and volunteer work. Jim was most honored by receiving an honorary "Degree of Wisdom" from Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College as well as a "Distinguished Leadership" award from the college. He received an "Outstanding Achievement" award from past Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota Joanell M. Dyrstad for outstanding service and commitment to the Minnesota tourism industry and was also recognized by the Minnesota Arrowhead Association with the "Outstanding Individual in Tourism" award. He was named "Business Volunteer of the Year" by the Cloquet Area Chamber of Commerce and received appreciation and achievement awards from The Northland Foundation, the Longleaf Homeowners Association and the citizens of his Longleaf community. Jim traveled abroad extensively throughout his retirement with his best friend, wife, and fellow adventurer Theodora. Above all, Jim was a dedicated and loving husband, father, and friend! He was a pillar in the communities in which he resided and served and will be missed by many. May his memory be eternal! Trisagion and funeral service will be held at Hodges Family Funeral Home, 11441 US-301, Dade City, FL on September 15th, 2023, visitation from 10am to 11am and service at 11, Father Gabriel officiating, with Burial service with United States Marine Corps military honors to follow at Florida National Cemetery at 1:30pm, 6502 SW 102nd Ave., Bushnell, FL. In lieu of flowers please send memorials to The Disabled American Veterans Charity (dav.org) in memory of James P. Bovis. Memorial Donation Visitation Friday, September 15, 2023 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Hodges Family Funeral Home (Dade City) 11441 US HIGHWAY 301 Dade City, FL 33525 Funeral Service Friday, September 15, 2023 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Hodges Family Funeral Home (Dade City) 11441 US HIGHWAY 301 Dade City, FL 33525 Graveside Service Friday, September 15, 2023 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Florida National Cemetery 6502 SW 102nd Ave Bushnell, Florida 33513