James Paul Wittmer was born Sept. 28, 1951, in Albert Lea to Harold H. and Marleda K. (Attig) Wittmer. He attended Geneva Elementary School and Ellendale school through the 11th grade. In September 1968, the family moved to the Miltona and Spruce Hill area. He finished his senior year of high school and graduated from Jefferson High School in Alexandria.

James farmed most of his life and truly enjoyed milking Jersey cows. In 1972, he bought his own farm on the Douglas and Todd county lines. In 1974, he was involved in an accident, despite this he farmed until his health no longer permitted. When he retired he moved into his new home over looking Lake Miltona. James also enjoyed spending time with his long time friend Steve Goodwin. He had an interest in woodworking, being outdoors, driving around in his golf cart looking for wildlife, gardening, hunting and fishing.

James died on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2013, at the age of 61. He is survived by his brothers, Roger (Barb) Wittmer of Osakis and Dan (Anita) Wittmer of Parkers Prairie; sister, Sharon Hemenway of Albert Lea; nephews and nieces, Sam (Dan) O’Rourke, Sue Ruble, Jason (Roxanne) Ruble, Rebecca (Jay) Gravholt, Kelly Hemenway, Ray Hemenway Jr., Michelle (Chris) Roeszler, Michael (Amie) Wittmer, Dan’elle Wittmer and Zach Wittmer; great-nieces and great-nephews, Ashton, Hannah, Nicholas, Derck, Amanda, Stassy, Taylor, Alex, Mathew, Ethan and Bentley; great-great-niece, Kinley; one uncle, Orville “Orv” Wittmer; and many cousins and friends.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Marleda Wittmer; sister, Mary Stanley; and nephew, Gregory Wittmer.

A memorial service was held today at the Anderson Funeral Home with the Rev. Kenneth Thiele officiating. Honorary urn bearers were Steve Goodwin and Richard Vogt. Inurnment will be held at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Albert Lea at a later date.

Arrangements were provided by Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria. The funeral home can be found online at www.andersonfuneral.net.