James Deopere

Lake Crystal Mortuary
726-6161

James Allan Deopere, age 74, of Lake Crystal, died Thursday, December 22, 2011 at his home.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at Zion Lutheran Church in Lake Crystal, with Rev. Nancy Dreier officiating. Burial will be in Lake Crystal Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. on Monday at Lake Crystal Mortuary and continues one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday.

Jim was born on August 15, 1937 in New Ulm. He was the son of Clarence and Luella (Loesch) Deopere. Jim was a graduate of New Ulm High School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1960. Jim was united in marriage to Freida Lange on October 21, 1960 in New Ulm. Jim and Freida were blessed with three children. Jim was employed with Culligan's in Mankato and retired from Crystal Co-op in Lake Crystal after 34 years. He served for 20 years with the Lake Crystal Fire Department. Jim was a past member of the Moose Lodge, Ducks Unlimited, and the Lake Crystal American Legion Post 294. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing cards, Bingo, playing slots at Jackpot Junction Casino, coaching for the Lake Crystal fast pitch softball team where Jim "kept "em in line," and spending time with his grandchildren.

Jim is survived by his wife, Freida of Lake Crystal; three children: Jim (Brenda) Deopere of North Mankato, Pam (Randy) Briesath of Aurora, IL and Lori (Rich) Dragosh of Queen Creek, AZ; six grandchildren: Logan and Alexandra Deopere, Tyler, Megan and Molly Briesath and Hunter Dragosh; three brothers: Harry (Darlyne), Clarence (Nancy), and Michael (Linda) and sister-in-law, Karen all of Cambria; and many nieces and nephews.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dennis; and two grandchildren: T. Jordan Briesath and Ann Marie Deopere.