Earl J. Eckert, better known as Jim, of Fridley passed away on April 26, 2022 at Mercy Hospital, at the age of 83.

Jim was born February 11, 1939 in Westbrook to parents Leslie and Violet Eckert, one of five children. He was the only one to be born at home. At the age of 10, Jim was hospitalized with polio.

Jim graduated from Granite Falls High School in 1957 and entered the Navy in 1958. He was stationed on the USS Bonhomme Richard. He was extremely proud to be a vet. Jim had many jobs throughout his life, including owning the Champlain Café in Granite Falls and ending his career at Blaine Brothers. Jim enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, golfing and reading. Jim loved that he shared his birthday with his daughter Carolee and grandson Josh.

He is survived by his children: Kevin (Diana) Eckert, Carolee (Aaron) Peterson and Carey Beth (George) Kasapidis; 11 grandchildren; seven greatgrandchildren; siblings: Dorothy Fugate and Sharon (John) Roemer; many nieces and nephews; and other family and friends from Blainebook.

He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings: Connie and Jack and son Jim Eckert.

A burial will be held on July 5 at 10 a.m. at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.