James Sandelin

James Lee Sandelin, age 79, of Hackensack, passed away peacefully on Feb. 18 after a courageous 15 month battle with cancer. Preceded in death by his parents, Helge and Margaret Sandelin. Survived by his wife of 54 years, Donna (Vollan); sons, Mark (Pam) and Paul (Angie), and daughter Kristi Brandt (Bob); grandchildren, Erik and Britta Sandelin and Jack Brandt; step-grandchildren, Carl and Carolyn Sneep, Amber, Cole and Mindy Howard and Alyx Brandt Gunderson; sister, Karen Northrup (Walter) and brother-in-law, Paul Vollan (Sandra).
Jim was born in St. Peter, MN, was a graduate of St. Peter High School and Gustavus Adolphus College ('53), and was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. After marrying in 1956, Jim and Donna spent the next 39 years in Browerville, MN, raising their three children. An active member of the community, Jim served on several boards and committees, enjoyed public service and valued making contributions to the community.
Jim and Donna retired to Ten Mile Lake in Hackensack, MN, where Jim spent many summers as a young boy. He enjoyed fishing, the lake and all it had to offer; had a great passion for music, was an avid bridge player and a crossword puzzle wizard.
Jim lived his life with deep faith, dignity, and endless enthusiasm for his family. He was a role model, and teacher of life to all of us.
Services will be held at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Hackensack, MN, on Monday, Feb. 22 at 2:00 PM, with visitation at the church 1 hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, American Cancer Society and Heartland Hospice.