James W. Stahlke

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Stahlke, James W. age 66, passed away Mar. 14 at his beloved second home in Panama City Beach, Florida after a 3 year battle with neuro-endocrine pancreatic cancer. He fought the good fight for so long, never complaining. Jim was raised in Delano, MN. He graduated from DHS in '67 where he's been described as the "pillar of their class". He went on to the Air Force Academy but decided to return to the U of M where he received his business degree from the Carlson School of Business. During college he joined the Air Force as a medic. After college he went on to officer training school and was on active duty for six years. He flew the C-141 during the Vietnam war flying refugees to the U.S. and received the Air Medal. He was later assigned to Presidental Support flying to embassies around the world. He retired from the Air Force Reserves after 20 years as a Major. His father instilled in him the love of flying and he made his first solo flight at the age of 16. He was hired in 1979 by North Central and ended his career as a 767/777 Captain for Delta. When asked how he liked his job his response was "It's better than working for a living!" He loved his career. He relished learning, reading historical books and was a WWII buff. He enjoyed golfing with his friends and two boys, going to San Diego to see his daughter and grandchildren, spending time with Kay's family at the mountain cabin in Idaho, spending time together on Lake Minnetonka, and traveling with his family all over the world. Jim is survived by his wife Kay of 28 years, married March 19, 1988 in Boise Idaho. His daughter Tina, grandchildren Pierce and Rachel, sons Ben and Matt. Brother Steve-Sue, sister Julie Bernick-Mel, and sister Beth Logsdon-Len. Nieces and nephews and 8 great nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Dwain and Ruth Stahlke. He lived the past 29 years in Mound and was proud to be part of such a wonderful community. The common thread in people's comments is His smile lit up a room, he was a mentor to many, and the nicest most thoughtful man. A celebration of his life will be held Wednesday, March 23 at 11:00 am with a luncheon to follow, Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 301 County Road 19, Excelsior, MN 55331. Memorial donations can be made to caringbridge.com, WeCan of Mound, or donor's choice.

Published on March 20, 2016