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James Paul Eickman, 73, of Chisago City, MN, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family early in the morning on February 10. He was born in Witchita, KS August 9, 1941, the oldest son of Mamert and Irma Wolfe Eickman and third of their nine children. He grew up in Pine Creek, WI and graduated from Arcadia High School in 1959.  

He joined the Army in 1959 and was discharged in 1963. Jim married Sheila Donahue September 5, 1964 at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New Ulm, MN. He worked from 1963-2011 in the construction industry. He began his career as a carpenter and at the time of his retirement, he was a construction superintendent for Bossardt Corporation.

He loved to fish and didn't mind spoiling his 19 grandchildren. His furniture construction for family will endure generations as family heirlooms because of the quality of his workmanship. Summer picnics, winter bonfires, and special trips with the grandkids are some of the memories that will always remind his children and grandchildren fondly of Grandpa Jim.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Sheila, sons Bradley (Suzette), Scott (Kristen), Chris Daniel (Mai) and Craig (Lisa), his daughter, Stephanie (Shane Volk), 19 grandchildren, five sisters, one brother, and a large and loving extended family. Preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, two brothers-in-law, and one sister-in-law.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 14, 2015 at St. Bridget of Sweden Catholic Church, 13060 Lake Blvd., Lindstrom, MN 55045.  Visitation 4-7 p.m. Friday at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church and one hour prior to the mass on Saturday at church.  Interment at Calvary Cemetery in Forest Lake, MN.  Memorials to Fairview Lakes HomeCaring & Hospice, 11725 Stinson Ave., Chisago City, MN 55013 or St. Bridget’s Catholic Church.  Arrangements by the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom.  Condolences may be left online at www.grandstrandfh.com

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