As the owner of US Window & Door, I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of James "Jim" Milgard, Sr., on January 31, 2025, at the age of 84. Jim was a pivotal figure in our industry whose contributions have left an indelible mark on window and door manufacturing.
Remembering Jim Milgard: A Story of Leadership and Legacy
In 1958, Jim's father Maurice and brother Gary co-founded Milgard Glass Company in Tacoma, Washington. By 1961, Jim had joined the company, and together, they expanded into aluminum window fabrication, eventually establishing Milgard Manufacturing together. Their commitment to quality and innovation transformed Milgard into one of North America's most respected window and door companies.
Jim's leadership and passion for teamwork set a gold standard that continues to guide us today. Even after stepping away from daily operations, he remained deeply connected to the industry, offering wisdom and encouragement to those fortunate to know him.
Jim wasn't just an industry leader. He was a man who valued relationships and integrity. Those who knew him described him as quiet, wise, and generous with his time. He built lifelong friendships through business and community involvement. He was also known for his love of golf, boating, and spending time with friends and family.
Legacy of Leadership in the Window And Door Industry
As a fellow business owner in the window and door industry, I understand firsthand the challenges and rewards of building something that lasts. It takes more than just a great product. It requires strong leadership, a dedicated team, and an unwavering commitment to quality. His most outstanding achievement wasn't just the company itself; it was the people and their families that continue to benefit from what he leaves behind.
A great business isn't just defined by its founder but by the team that carries its vision forward. Milgard's commitment to quality and service didn't end with Jim; it lives on in the employees who uphold his high daily standards. That's why Milgard, now part of MITER Brands, continues to be a name homeowners and contractors trust.
At US Window & Door, we know that building a company is more than just selling windows and doors. It's about paving the way for the future, setting a high bar for excellence, and ensuring that the next generation carries the torch forward. Jim did precisely that, and his legacy will continue to shape the industry for years.
A Heart For Friendship
Jim had a way of bringing people together through investments or shared passions. One of the most telling examples was the Mud Lake Investment Club, which Jim co-founded in the 1960s with a close group of friends.
One of Jim's longtime friends, Peter Norman, recalls how their connection through the investment club grew into a strong personal bond. Jim wasn't the type to dominate a conversation, but when he spoke, people listened. He was a man of measured words, thoughtful insights, and quiet leadership, a trait that extended beyond business and into his relationships. Even outside work, Jim carried himself with the same calm confidence and reliability that defined his professional life.
Despite his success, Jim never sought the spotlight. He preferred fly-fishing over public recognition and deeply appreciated history, collecting documents signed by George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Lewis and Clark. In a 2009 interview with The News Tribune, Jim reflected on his role in the family business, noting that he was more comfortable staying behind the scenes while his brother Gary handled public-facing responsibilities. As Gary put it in The Milgard Story, "Suffice it to say that I've been the driving force of the business, while Jim has done many of the behind-the-scenes things that have been vitally important.
Commitment to Business Education And Philanthropic Ventures
Beyond business, Jim and his wife, Carolyn, were dedicated philanthropists. Their $15 million donation to the University of Washington-Tacoma helped establish the Milgard School of Business, ensuring future generations would benefit from business education. They also contributed to community healthcare by funding the Milgard Medical Pavilion at St. Anthony Hospital.
His generous donation to the University of Washington-Tacoma helped establish the Milgard School of Business. He wanted future business leaders to have the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation to lead with integrity and vision. The Milgard School of Business remains committed to fostering leadership, entrepreneurship, and corporate responsibility. Jim believed that great businesses do more than generate profits. They support their communities and create meaningful opportunities for others.
Jim and his family believed in fostering the next wave of business leaders, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to drive economic vitality and entrepreneurship in Tacoma and beyond. As Jim put it, they invested to "help entrepreneurs, mid-sized companies, and corporations throughout the area flourish."
Remembering a Leader, Innovator, and Friend
Building a company in this industry demands technical expertise, resilience, vision, and an unwavering dedication to excellence. Jim embodied these qualities, setting a standard that many—including myself—strive to uphold. His legacy isn't just in the windows and doors that bear the Milgard name but also in the people he influenced, the careers he nurtured, and the communities he strengthened.
On behalf of US Window & Door, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Jim's family, friends, and colleagues. His leadership, generosity, and wisdom have significantly shaped our industry, and his absence will be deeply felt. We will carry forward his values, ensuring that the company he helped build remains a testament to his life's work.
Rest in peace, Jim. Your legacy continues to inspire us all.
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