James Paul Wachtel

James P. Wachtel, age 63 of Lake Crystal MN, passed away at his home on January 22, 2025.

He was born June 2, 1961 in Mankato MN. James attended Mankato Public Schools. After high school, he enlisted in the US Army. James married Bonnie Lieferman on October 9, 1981. They had 1 daughter, Stacy born in 1982. James worked for Winnebago Industries in Forrest City Iowa and then for Pete Wachtel Construction and Jontel Construction, and later MRCI. James relocated to Lake Crystal MN to be closer to his daughter and grandchildren. James loved fishing, hunting and camping with his siblings, softball and bowling. 

He is survived by his daughter, Stacy (Jared) Smith; grandchildren: Christian, Alivia, and Jeremiah; sister Diane Mann; brothers: Darryl, Mike (Wendy), Jon (Cindee), Pete (Michelle), Marty, Lonnie (Audrey) Evers, Jon Evers; 31 nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law: Marlyce Wachtel and Tammy (TJ) Wachtel; many relatives in New Ulm and the Metro Area, and special friend, Marilyn.

He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Geraldine Evers; brothers: Joel and Eddie; and nephew Matthew Barr.

James will be remembered for his goofy sense of humor and his eagerness to always be there to help others and his deep love for his family and friends. 

Funeral Services are 10:30am Friday, February 7, 2025 at Northview-North Mankato Mortuary with visitation beginning at 9:30am. Burial with Military Honors by the Mankato Area Memorial Squad at Pilgrim's Rest Cemetery, Mankato MN. 

Everyone is invited to join the family for lunch at the mortuary following graveside services.

The live stream link below is a complimentary service provided by Mankato Area Funeral Homes.

Unforeseen technical, internet, facility, and/or acoustical circumstances may produce a diminished end product. Please note, if the live stream does not appear, we are attempting to record and publish the service for later viewing.