James Ellingson

James (Jim) Cyril Ellingson (aka "Hero"), born January 11, 1948, in Breckenridge, MN passed away in the early morning of June 20, 2025, in Perham, MN after many years of progressive health issues.

Jim is survived by his two daughters, Stephanie Faye, her spouse, Jason Dykhoff and his four children, and Gretchen Marie, her spouse, Ryan Hall and his two children. He also leaves behind three siblings, Barbara, Marie, and Mark and their families, as well as the families of his brothers, Leonard and Reynold. He was also preceded in death by his mother Ellen Marie (Kluck), his father, Severan Raymond.

After his graduation from Breckenridge High School, Jim attended North Dakota State School of Science and then Moorhead State University where he received his bachelor's degree in physical education. He married Machelle Lee (Winter) in 1969 and while they did not remain married, they remained friends the rest of his life. In support of his family, Jim worked industriously and spent most of his work life in Shipping and Receiving at Ro-Banks Tool & Manufacturing. In addition, Jim and Machelle established small businesses (J&W Fireworks and Spectrum) selling fireworks in the summer, Christmas trees in the winter, and eventually a year-round nursery for many years.

When not hard at work, Jim enjoyed playing cards, playing sports, watching westerns and his favorite Minnesota sports teams (Go Vikes! Go Twins!), as well as hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed music and singing as a young lad and picked that back up in his 50's by singing karaoke. He was always quite the jokester playing pranks on unsuspecting siblings and friends and telling elaborate stories and jokes.

The Celebration of Life service to honor the life of our Hero, James Cyril Ellingson, will be held on June 27, 2025, at 10:30am at the Doran Presbyterian Church in Doran, MN (about 8 miles southeast of Breckenridge). The Doran Presbyterian Church is where Jim attended services throughout his childhood and would attend with his family on holidays throughout his life. A light lunch will follow the service for all to visit and share personal memories.

Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service, Perham, MN (218) 346-5175 www.schoenebergerfh.com