Obituary of James A Essen

James A. Essen Sr. 81, of Floodwood, Minn., passed away Wednesday Feb, 24, 2016 at Essentia Health Care surrounded by his loved ones. James was born in Grand Rapids, Minn., on Sept. 8, 1934 to the Late William and May (Lundin) Essen. Jim married Barbara Quaas Sept 15, 1958 in Grand Rapids. Jim was an over the road trucker for most of his life. He enjoyed spending time with his family and racing with his grandsons, duck hunting, deer hunting, fishing and working the hobby farm with his son-in-law Loren. He is preceded in death by his wife Barb of 43 years and one son James (Jimmy) Essen Jr. Those who loved and shared his life are his two daughters Debi (Loren) Lindquist, Wanda (Steve Hart) Essen; his life companion of 10 years Carolee Norman; four grandchildren Danielle Lindquist, Dustin (Taylor) Lindquist, Patric (Courtney) Manee, Steven Hart; four great-grandchildren who he adored, Jenna, Jayce, Peyton and Cree. CELEBRATION OF LIFE: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday March 5, 2016 in the Savanna Portage in Floodwood, Minn.