James Mely

James J. Mely, ‘Jim’, passed away on Thursday, July 16, 2020 at St. John’s Lutheran Home – Luther Place in Albert Lea, MN. He was 79 years old. Family is planning a celebration of life to take place once the Covid restrictions are over.

The youngest child of 10, Jim was born to John and Mary on July 30, 1940, in Minneapolis, MN. After attending high school at the Vocational High School in the downtown Minneapolis area, Jim married Sharon Brynteson in 1960, and they stayed married until 1975. They were blessed with a son, James, and a daughter, Vickie. He worked for over 42 years and eventually retired from the Packaging Corporation of America. Jim spent most of his life in North East Minneapolis before eventually moving to New Richland in 2004.

An avid sports fan, Jim liked watching the Vikings and the Twins. He also enjoyed hockey and brought his kids to a few games at the Met Stadium. Music was important to Jim as well, and he especially liked Elvis Presley. Old western movies were some of his favorites, and Jim could often be found with them on, but he also enjoyed horror movies now and then. Being a grandpa was one of the highlights of Jim’s life. The pool in his backyard was a magnet for his grandchildren, and Jim always made sure they could swim at any time.

Jim is survived by his children, James Mely and Vickie Bazoff; grandchildren, Zach Mely (fiancé Sandra Quezada), Orin Mely, Jade Mely, Kurt Bazoff (fiancé Kila Rice), Raymond (Jenn) Schintz and Vanessa (Toddrey) Breezee; 13 great-grandchildren; brother, Ted; and many other loving family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary; sisters, Mary, Anne and Lucy; brothers, George, Pete, John, Bill and Don.