Despite living largely outside the public spotlight, Jim Ozbun’s wife, Sonja Marie Ozbun, was a quiet yet powerful force behind his successful academic and leadership career.
Jim Ozbun served as the 11th president of North Dakota State University from 1988 to 1995.
He was instrumental in the development of major athletic facilities like the Fargodome and the Ellig Sports Complex.
In recognition of his and his wife Sonja’s unwavering support for student-athletes and Bison athletics, they were inducted as honorary members of the NDSU Bison Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010.
Tragically, Ozbun passed away on August 3, 2025, in Bismarck, North Dakota, and his funeral was scheduled for August 9, with visitation on August 8 in Dickinson.
A Life Together: From College Sweethearts to Community Leaders
Jim Ozbun met Sonja Smedstad while both were attending college in North Dakota. They fell in love and married on May 30, 1959.
From their early days as college students to raising a family and supporting university programs together, Sonja remained a steadfast partner throughout their 65-year marriage.
Over the decades, they raised a close-knit family, including two children, Terry Ozbun, their son, and Karen Farrington (née Ozbun), their daughter.
Later, they became proud grandparents to six grandchildren and multiple great-grandchildren.
Sonja Ozbun’s role in Jim’s career extended far beyond the home. During his time as President of North Dakota State University (1988–1995), she served as the first lady of the university, hosting dignitaries, welcoming student-athletes, and creating a warm and supportive campus environment.
Her quiet dedication and grace were essential to Jim’s ability to lead, fundraise, and represent NDSU.
After Jim retired, the couple moved to a ranch in western North Dakota, where they raised Hereford cattle and Quarter horses.
Sonja also immersed herself in community life, volunteering at the local bookstore, gardening, attending church, and participating in civic groups.
Their shared legacy of service and humility made them beloved figures in both academic and rural communities.
Sonja and Jim Ozbun were married for 65 years, from May 30, 1959, until her passing in September 2024.
She preceded him in death by nearly a year, and Jim passed away on August 3, 2025, at age 88.
A funeral service for Jim was held on August 9, with a visitation on August 8 in Dickinson.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Jim Ozbun served as the 11th president of North Dakota State University (NDSU) from 1988 to 1995, a period marked by major campus expansions and increased visibility for the university.
- Under his leadership, NDSU played a critical role in the development of the Fargodome, a major indoor stadium that now serves as a landmark venue in Fargo.
- He held degrees from North Dakota State University, Montana State University, and Iowa State University, earning his Ph.D. in plant pathology.
- Before becoming president of NDSU, Ozbun held administrative and faculty positions at universities such as Washington State University and New Mexico State University.
