Ronald Charles James was born on December 8, 1938 in Beardsley, Minnesota. He was raised by Henry Herbert and Emma Jean Bentz. Ron attended Beardsley High School.
On January 15, 1956, Ron was united in marriage to Marilyn Wilson in Graceville, Minnesota. Their marriage was blessed with twin daughters, Valerie and Renee, and two sons, Keith, and David. Ron enlisted in the United States Army Reserves on February 29, 1956, transferring to active duty in 1957. He honorably served his country until his discharge on April 1, 1959.
Ron and his family made their home in Graceville, Minnesota and Watkins, Minnesota. They moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota where Ron was employed with the City of Crystal Sewer & Water Company. In 1983, Ron and Marilyn made their home in Vining, Minnesota where they farmed. Following retirement, they made their home together in Henning, Minnesota. Marilyn passed away on September 19, 2021.
Ron had a love for restoring Model T cars, caring for the animals on his farm, and cooking.
He will be missed by many. He was known to be kind and helpful to many in the community. One of his favorite things was enjoying company over a cup of coffee.
On October 24, 2021, Ron passed away at Lake Region Health Care in Fergus Falls, Minnesota at 82 years of age. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Preceding Ron in death are his parents: Henry and Emma; his loving wife: Marilyn; son: David; and grandson: Jason.
Ron is survived by his children: Valerie Schatzlein of Fergus Falls; Renee (Guy) Blechinger of Ham Lake; and Keith James of St. Cloud; 5 grandchildren: Tom, Sarah, Kaylee, Josh, and Laura; 5 great-grandchildren; as well as many other relatives and friends.
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