James R. Berkedal

James R. Berkedal, age 89, of Manitowoc, died Monday afternoon, June 4, 2018 at St. Mary's at Felician Village in Manitowoc with his niece and best friend at his side. Jim was born on May 10, 1929 in Manitowoc, the son of the late Olaf and Myrtle (Gunderson) Berkedal. He worked for the family business, Berkedal & Shimek for 50 years and then at Holiday House.Jim's dynamic sense of humor, playful nature and contagious laughter brought smiles and joy to the many lives he touched. A patient, gentle man, "Uncle Jim" as he was fondly addressed, had an incredible work ethic and was always willing to help others. He was a prolific artist and craftsman, and his room décor demonstrated his steadfast dedication to his beloved Green Bay Packers. He was a lifetime member of First Lutheran Church.Despite his challenges, Jim lived independently at Felician Village for many years, and the last several years at St Mary's, establishing a wonderful community of friends, not only with other residents but also his caregivers and staff. He received compassionate, loving care while living at the Felician Village Campus. Jim will be greatly missed by his family and friends, and especially by his devoted niece, Ann (Krueger) Auth, and his best friend Rich Auth.Survivors include his one sister: Carol Carlson, Northfield, MN; three nieces and nine nephews: Ann (Richard Auth) Krueger-Auth; Robert (Kristene) Krueger; Dennis (Lyn) Krueger; Stephen (Ann) Krueger; Rev. David (Rev. Sally) Berkedal; Jon Berkedal; Bonnie (Tom) Retzinger; Barry (Cindy) Carlson; Dr. Gary (Mary) Carlson; Greg (Nancy) Carlson; Jeff (Stacey) Carlson; Kristin (Justin) Stets, great-nieces, great-nephews, other relatives and friends also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents: Olaf and Myrtle Berkedal; one sister and brother-in-law: Barbara (Wilfred "Bud") Krueger; five brothers and one sister-in-law: Robert (Marilyn) Berkedal; John Berkedal; Donald Berkedal; Olaf Berkedal Jr.; Norman Berkedal; Brother-in-law Robert Carlson.A Memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 8, 2018 at the Blessed Angela Chapel at St. Mary's, 1635 South 21st Street, Manitowoc. Rev. Roald Harswick will officiate. Relatives and friends may call at the chapel on Friday from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service at 1:00 p.m. Burial of his cremated remains will take place at Evergreen Cemetery. The Jens Family Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.jensreinboldandpfeffer.comThe family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses, nursing assistants, and staff of the entire campus at St. Mary's at Felician Village, Shelley & Danielle of Home Care Health Services & Hospice, and Holy Family Memorial Doctors and nurses, for all their genuine loving and compassionate care given to James.

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