James “Jim” Loren Vander Voort

James “Jim” Loren Vander Voort, 70, Comstock, MN, died Wednesday, May 20, 2015, at Essentia Hospital in Fargo, due to complications following surgery.

Jim was born Dec 5, 1944 in Hutchinson, MN to Loren and Lois Forman. He grew up on the family farm and graduated from Hector High School. He earned his Bachelor of Music degree from Yankton College and taught in Excelsior and Deephaven, where he shared his love of instrumental and vocal music with elementary students. Later he received his MBA from National University in San Diego.

Jim married Rhoda Lindekugel on August 14, 1966. He enlisted in the Navy and was on board the USS Hornet as part of the band who played for Apollo 11 astronauts after their splashdown. He also was a part of a select group of musicians who were transported to other ships for special services as well as playing for military celebrations on land.

In 1987 Jim, Rhoda and daughter Karen moved to Alaska where he was a pharmaceutical rep.
While in Alaska they enjoyed camping, boating, fishing and snowmobiling.

Jim thrived on helping with the American Lung Association and Lions clubs in Anchorage.
In his retirement he moved back to MN to be closer to his family. Jim loved to be outside riding lawn mower, fishing, listening to music, reading, and being at the lake, especially with his Grandsons.

He is survived by his wife, Rhoda; daughter, Karen Eric Henschke, Moorhead; sister Judy Don Meisel, TX; brother Jerry Chris Vander Voort, AZ; grandsons Connor and Quinn and several cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his aunt, Leona.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, May 28, 2015 at 7:00 P.M. at Comstock Lutheran Church, Comstock, MN. Friends and family may gather from 6-7 P.M. at the church.

A memorial service will also be held Saturday, May 30, 2015 at 2:00 P.M. at United Methodist Church, Hector, MN, with a gathering for one hour before the service.

Memorials are preferred to Comstock Lutheran Church or the American Heart Association.