James Howard

James R. Howard, age 64, of Forada, Minnesota, died Saturday, June 12, 2010, at his home. Jim was born July 6, 1945 in Aitkin, Minnesota to Francis and Margery (Davies) Howard. He attended Longfellow Elementary School and was a 1963 graduate of Aitkin High School. After graduation he served four years in the U.S. Air Force. After returning home from serving his country Jim attended Alexandria Technical School and graduated with a degree in avionics. James was married to Ginger Reed on August 15, 1970 in Alexandria. He resided in the Alexandria area and, through the years, worked at various jobs. He worked for Northern Pacific Railroad, was a carpenter, worked for Douglas County as an assessor, was owner/operator of Almosta Convenience Store, and was a contracted assessor for several townships in Douglas County. He was a member of the American Legion, Eagles, VFW, and Bethesda Lutheran Church of Rossburg. He enjoyed spending time with his grandsons, country music and dancing, and was a line dance instructor for several years. Jim is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, Tron (Sheilah) of Eagan, Minnesota, Brent (Rhonda) of Forada, Minnesota; grandsons, Tyler, Tarin, Caden and Dylan; mother, Margery Howard of Aitkin; brothers and sister-in-law, Wayne of Ottertail, Roger (Linda) of Aitkin; sisters and brothers-in-law, Jill (Mark) Herron of Merrifield, Lorelie (Bruce) Robinson of Palisade, and Lael (Francis) Vaith of Aitkin; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Francis, and a nephew, Krane Howard. Memorial services were on Thursday, June 17, at 11:00 a.m., at Anderson Funeral Home with Rev. Barbara Lund Thompson officiating. A graveside service was held on Friday, June 18, at 11:00 a.m., at the Howard Family Cemetery in Kimberly Township with Rev. Sandy Berg Holte officiating, followed by lunch and fellowship at Bethesda Lutheran Church of Rossburg.