James Orlo LiaBraaten, 72, passed away peacefully at home in Rush City with family at his side after a 4 year plus battle with cancer. Born September 2, 1945 to Orlo and Lucille LiaBraaten, he was the oldest of seven children (but only 10 minutes ahead of his identical twin; Jack).
Jim grew up in Virginia, Minnesota; camping, fishing and hunting with his family. He graduated from the University of Minnesota-Duluth.
Retired after 21 years from the U.S. Air Force as a pilot, then retired again after 13 years of semi-trucking.
He enjoyed the outdoors...golfing, gardening and playing with all of his big-boy toys, especially his collection of John Deere tractors. His attention to detail and creative abilities were evident in his love of woodworking anything from large pieces of furniture to small replicas of trucks and tractors. The perfectionist in him said "Be never more than 1/16th of an inch off.”
He is survived by his wife Linda (nee Osmundson); daughter Kristen (David Ferguson); granddaughter Kaley; step-children Matthew, Ann, Debby and their families; six siblings Jack, Judy, Joel, Jerry, Joy, Jeff and their families; countless beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents; wife Sally; son Erik.
A private military ceremony and celebration of life service will be held at a later date.
Please visit www.FuneralAndCremationService.com of Rush City-Olson Chapel for condolences and Jim’s wishes are honored by no social media.