James Alan Eckert

James Alan Eckert was born August 8, 1962 to Earl and Patricia (Eid) Eckert in Granite Falls, Minnesota.

When Jim was young, the family moved to the twin cities. The family lived in a few places, including Soderville and then ultimately they settled in Pine City when Jim was 16. Jim graduated from Pine City High School in 1980. After graduation he moved to Arizona and met Stella.  They had four children: Josh, Jamie, Jonas and Janell.  When Josh was 5, the family moved back to Pine City. Jim loved being back in Minnesota and tinkering around the farm. Jim held many jobs, including working at Plastech in Rush City. Jim finally settled into his place in Rock Creek in 2016 and would often spend the winter in Florida.

Jim had a goofy, strange and infectious personality that was loved by all. He could make anything out of a hot glue gun, duct tape and a few wires. Jim was known by many as the computer fix it guy. He could fix any computer if given the time. Jim loved the outdoors and could be seen mowing his lawn, dragging his driveway or his favorite thing – riding his four wheeler. He also had a fondness for bacon, circus peanut candy and rainbow licorice. Jim had a wide network of friends that he could get to do about anything for him, including bringing him boxes of things to fix or make into something else.

Jim loved spending time with his family, especially his kids and grandkids. There was much laughter and love when the family was together and most likely some shenanigans.

Jim had a kind heart and was one of the least judgmental people you would have ever met. He will be missed by so many.

Jim is survived by his children Josh (Heidi) Eckert of Pine City, Jamie (Mike) Eckert of Braham, Jonas (Kelsey) Eckert of Eau Claire, WI., Janell (Adam) Hecimovich of Bovey; grandchildren:  Sutheree, Sophie, Parker, Landyn, Arianna and Viola; father Earl “Jim” Eckert of Fridley; siblings:  Carolee (Aaron) Peterson of Brooklyn Park, Kevin (Diana) Eckert of St. Michael, Kris (Justin) Jahnz of Pine City; sister Carey Beth (George) Kasapidis of Duluth; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his mother Patricia Koffler and step father Don Koffler.

A gathering of family and friends is planned for Friday (5/11/18) from 4-7 PM at the Swanson Funeral Chapel in Pine City.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to: Funeral and Cremation Service of Pine City, Swanson Chapel.  www.FuneralAndCremationService.com