BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Former Walmart executive James Alan "Jim" von Gremp passed away peacefully at home on October 12, surrounded by family.
Von Gremp, 75, had battled cancer for the past five years, according to his obituary, published in the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.
Born October 21, 1949, in Jefferson City, Mo., von Gremp was the eldest of four children. He shared a life full of love and adventure with his wife, Susan, their children, Megan and Alan, and four grandchildren.
A graduate of the University of Missouri, von Gremp began his professional career at Walmart in Bentonville, where he held positions in training, accounting, and public relations before ultimately leading the company's charitable foundation.
During his tenure, von Gremp helped launch Walmart's national partnership with the Children's Miracle Network — a collaboration that has since raised more than $1 billion to support children's hospitals across the country.
In 1988, he left the corporate world to start an accounting practice and later joining A.G. Edwards & Sons. He also co-owned radio stations in Joplin, Mo., and worked in real estate development.
Starting in 1992, von Gremp represented Benton County in the Arkansas House of Representatives. He later served as executive director of governmental operations and as chairman of the Arkansas Public Service Commission, where he earned a reputation as a thoughtful problem-solver and "Mr. Fix-It" for state government.
Von Gremp was also involved with the Rotary International, United Way of Benton County, and the Benton County Single Parent Scholarship Fund. He also served on the boards of Arvest Bank, the Northwest Arkansas Charitable Foundation, America's Car-Mart, and the University of Arkansas board of trustees.
An avid golfer, von Tremp treasured time with friends and adventures with Susan, from trips with family and friends around the world to the many years they spent making cherished memories in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
He enjoyed worshiping at Fellowship Bible Church, his Monday and Thursday men's prayer groups, and his Mexico church group, whose friendship and faith enriched his life in countless ways, especially in his journey with cancer.
