James Henry Skaarer

James H. Skaarer, 81 of Fargo, died Wednesday, August 27, 2015 at ManorCare in Fargo.

James was born June 13, 1934 to parents Bertha and Henry Skaarer. He grew up in Detroit Lakes, MN and Fargo, where he graduated from Fargo Central High School in 1952. He attended NDSU before joining the Army. He was stationed in Ft. Devens, MA and served from 1957-1959, earning a degree as an electrician.

James married Marlys (Yoder) Skaarer on May 27, 1960. Following his retirement from AT&T, he worked for Ponderosa Golf and Rickhart Electric. He was an active member of Plymouth Congregational Church, serving as Treasurer and Secretary. He enjoyed building models and flying model planes that he had built. He especially enjoyed playing golf and spending time with his grandchildren. Many memories were made at their Lake Lizzie cabin.

James is survived by his wife, Marlys of Fargo; children, Michael J. (Doris) Skaarer of Harlingen, TX, Christine (Rick) May of Tillamook, OR, and Joanne Williams of Longville, MN; sister, Jean (David) Haugo; grandchildren, Matthew Johnson, Angela Dunham, Delany Skaarer, Shelby Skaarer, Jodi Elleraas, and Patrick Elleraas; great-grandchildren, Dayna Elleraas, Dylan Johnson, and Madison Johnson; great-great-grandchildren, Toki Elleraas and Max Dunham, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts, and uncles.

Jim’s family would like to thank Dr. Denise Snow and the staff at Roger Maris Cancer Center, the staff of ManorCare, Lois Fritz and Denver Sayler, and Pastor Grace Murray and Jim Martin for the care and support they provided Jim and his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Plymouth Congregational Church.