James Ehlert

James H. Ehlert, age 85, a longtime resident of Fridley passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 19, 2017 surrounded by his family.

Preceeded in death by wife Annella “Nellie” on June 15, 1999, and all of his brothers and sisters, including Cyril, Melvin, Hilerion “Larry,” Walter, Juletta, and Geraldine “Tootie.”

Jim is survived by his children Joe, Mike, Ron (Laurie), Scott (Laura), Steve (Krystal), Grandchildren Amie, Sara, Megan Chad, Erika, Justin, and Ben. Great-grandchildren Stella and Vayda.

James Herman Ehlert was born August 14, 1932 at 1:00 PM to John W. Ehlert and Mary A. (Maymie) Laing. Also known as “Jim” or “Jimmy” in his younger years, he was the seventh and final child of his family. He was born on the Bill Blenker farm three miles southwest of Albany, MN. He was baptized at Seven Dollars Church in Albany, MN. His god-parents were Herman and Kate Laing of Freeport. He graduated from Melrose High School in 1950. Following graduation, Jim worked at the Laing Food Store in Freeport, where he met Nellie Borgerding who would become the love of his life. On February 6, 1952, Jim joined the army and was assigned to the Army Security Agency where he spent three years stationed in Hawaii. Upon his return, he married Nellie on April 14, 1956. After a long career working for Gambles, he worked many years at the Anoka County License Bureau before retiring.

Jim was a charter member of St. William Catholic Church, active in the church, Knights of Columbus, and Boy Scouts, being especially proud of his five sons who all attained the rank of Eagle Scout. In his later years he became an avid coin collector and spent many hours researching family history.

Visitation will be held at Miller Funeral Home, 6210 Highway 65 NE, Fridley, MN on Friday, September 22, 2017 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM, with a Prayer Service at 6:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2017 at 11:00 AM at St. William Catholic Church, 6120 5th Street, NE, Fridley, MN at 11:00AM, with visitation one hour prior. Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Tuesday, September 26, 2017 at 10:00 AM.

Memorials preferred to Sharing and Caring Hands, 525 N. 7th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55405 in lieu of flowers.