Roll Call Tribute

James Philip "Jim" Budarf, Sr. 

June 6, 1950 - February 11, 2024 

James “Jim” Philip Budarf, Sr., known better to most of his family as “PopPop” passed away after a brief illness on February, 11, 2024 in Frisco, Texas. Although he battled several serious medical issues in recent years (including Alzheimer’s), he never lost his zest for life or his joy in meeting others.

He was born June 6, 1950, in New York City, New York to Philip Kladis and Irene Chalamides. Although he proudly grew up in Yonkers, New York, where he became an Eagle Scout, he finally came to his senses and moved to Texas to attend Texas A&M University. He was, forever after, a proud Aggie. After graduation he joined the Marine Corps and was honorably discharged.

Jim spent his entire career working as an electrical engineer and retired from Seimens Corporation. Among his many passions, Jim served as the first fire chief of the Trophy Club Volunteer Fire Department from 1982 – 1984 and, years later, came back to volunteer again. When not working or fighting fires, Jim could either be found traveling with his wife, Brenda, or spending time with his family. One of his greatest pleasures was spending time with his grandchildren and doing his best to spoil them rotten.

Jim is survived by his wife of 33 years, Brenda Shields Budarf of Frisco, Texas, and his sister, Barbara Lane of Ocala, Florida. He is also survived by his five children: Melissa Harper and husband Geoffrey of Dallas, Texas, Monica Wolfe and wife Jen of Plano, Texas, Debbie Mashburn of Ringgole, Georgia, Wesley Wolfe and wife Erin of Cleveland, Ohio, and James Philip Budarf, II (Jim) and wife Lisa of Graham, Texas. Finally, he is survived by his pride and joys, his 14 grandchildren and one great grandchild: Tatum Circle, Wilson Wolfe, Dylan Mashburn, Mason Harper, Skylar Mashburn, James Philip Budarf, III (Trey), Victoria Harper, Aiden Wolfe, Jackson Budarf, Abby Wolfe, Easton Budarf, Isabella Wolfe, Kayden Wolfe, Ryder Wolfe, and the newest addition, James Philip Budarf, IV (Quade).

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 2 p.m. at Stonebriar Funeral Home, 10375 Preston Rd., Frisco, Texas 75033.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association (act.alz.org).