James Bortnem

James “Jim” Bortnem, 73, of Hawley, MN, died Friday, August 14, 2015, at Sanford Health Medical Center in Fargo.

Jim will be remembered for his quiet grace and his immeasurable exuberance for life. He was a father, a husband, a grandfather, a sailor, a pilot, a counselor, a teacher. He never did anything half-measure. He was an entrepreneur in every sense of the word: from Elder’s Radio to the Garrick Theater, and a thousand projects in between – some which he left unfinished. He possessed an enviable desire to learn, tempered with an equally powerful desire to pass on his wisdom to others. He was impossible to forget; a friend to many and a supporter of the underdog.

Jim leaves behind his beloved wife Sharon, who shared his life for over 52 years. He leaves behind an exemplary faith in God – a quiet, powerful faith that radiated from him. Jim left an impact on this world – he leaves behind family, friends, and acquaintances who will never forget him and his large presence. The world is a little less bright without him. We are saddened not for those who knew Jim, but for those who never met him and were never infected with his spirit.

Jim also leaves behind his son, Bradley Laurel Bortnem, Portland, OR, his daughter, Lisa Jon Bortnem-Wiser, Hawley, his son, Bryan Gina Bortnem, Hawley, his sister, Janis Softing, grandchildren, Brock Bortnem, Malia Bortnem, Blake Bortnem, Cale Bortnem, Grace Czarobski, Jordan Bortnem, Tyler Wiser, and Lindsi Hanlon and two great-grandchildren.

Jim is preceded in death by his mother and father, and his two younger brothers.

A memorial gathering will be held on Tuesday, August 18, 2015 from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. with a prayer service at 7:00 P.M. at Wright Funeral Home in Hawley. A memorial service will follow on Wednesday, August 19, 2015 at 3:00 P.M. at the Hawley High School Auditorium. Immediately following the service, a celebration will be held at the Garrick Theatre in Hawley. Burial will be at the Hamden Cemetery near Lake Park, MN.

Memorials are preferred to HLS Ministries of Lysne Lutheran Church and Kamp Kace.