James Oscar Eugene Eklund, age 81, of Walker, passed away on Thursday, August 24, 2017 at the Walker Rehab Center with his family by his side.  Jim was born on August 8, 1936 in Graceville, MN the son of John and Nettie (Flaaten) Eklund. 

Jim grew up and graduated from Kensington High School in 1955.  He entered the United States Navy and proudly served his country until his discharge in 1957.  Following his service, he took positions such as hauling milk cans and driving bulk trucks for the Kensington Creamery.   In January of 1958 Jim and Phyllis were united in marriage in Hoffman, MN.  In July of 1967 they moved their family to Walker where Jim became an engineer and maintenance technician for Ah-Gwah-Ching.  He retired in 1999 and enjoyed his hunting and fishing.  Jim loved traveling with his family even when the kids were younger.  He went to places like Alaska and Hawaii and even took a cruise to the Bahamas.  The one thing you could count on with Jim, he was a person who could make lifelong friends wherever he went.  Jim will be sadly missed by all his family and friends who knew him.

The family that Jim joins again are his parents; John and Nettie, brother in-law; Arlyn Gunderman and one grandson; James Duane Provo.

Those he leaves behind to cherish his memory are his loving wife of almost 60 years; Phyllis Eklund of Walker, son; Jerry Eklund of Walker, daughters; Lori Reeve (Jeff) of Walker and Kim (Rick) Stepan of Plymouth, MN.  Sisters in-law; Karen Werk and Naoma Gunderman, one brother in-law; David Werk, grandchildren; Jason (Claire) Reeve and Andrew Provo, great grandchildren; Paxton, Lennox and Zoe, numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. 

Funeral services for Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 28, 2017 at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Walker.  Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, August 27 also held at Immanuel Lutheran Church.  Pastor Matthew Vrudny will officiate.  Pallbearers for Jim will be Jason Reeve, Andrew Provo, Kent Reeve, Will Pehling, David Werk and Michael Werk.  Honorary pallbearers will be all the staff of the Walker Rehabilitation Center of Walker.  Interment will be held at the Evergreen Cemetery in Walker following the luncheon at the church. 

Jim’s care has been entrusted to the Northern Peace Funeral Home of Walker, MN.  Online condolences for the family may be given at www.northernpeace.com