James Ivan Malterud

James (Jim) Ivan Malterud age 87 of Bemidji, MN passed away Saturday, January 4, 2020 in his home surrounded by family and friends as he lost his struggle with diabetes, cancer, and kidney failure. 

Memorial Services will be held 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 10, 2020 at the Olson-Schwartz Funeral Home, Bemidji with Pastor Allen Brooks, Jim's nephew, officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.  A celebration of his life will follow in the Spring in Becida, MN (Date TBD)

Jim was born August 8, 1932 in Bemidji, MN to parents Ingvald and Florence (Brennan) Malterud.  He grew up on a farm in Becida, MN where he attended the Malterud School later graduating from Bemidji High School.  He entered the Navy and was trained as an aviation mechanic.  On May 24, 1954 he was married in Shevlin, MN to Janet Almira Roberts.  After the Navy his aviation mechanic training led him to a career with the MN Department of Transportation.  Starting as a mechanic in the Virginia, MN shop, he was soon promoted and became the youngest shop foreman in the state requiring a move to Owatonna, MN. Later, he was given another promotion that moved him to Duluth, MN.  Having a desire to get back to Bemidji, he transferred to the Bemidji District and finished his career as a shop foreman retiring at the age of 55.  Jim enjoyed his family along with outdoor life pursuits including hunting, fishing and camping.  He also enjoyed bowling, dancing, curling, and playing cards. 

Jim was survived by his companion in later years Jeanette Erie of Bemidji; Siblings: Robert "Bob” of Northome, Daniel “Dan” of Eveleth, Bruce of Bemidji, Patricia “Pat” Tangborn of Laporte and Lee “Butch” of Bemidji. 2 sons, Gordon (Odell) Malterud of New Prague and Mark (Colleen) Malterud of Eagan, 3 Grand Children: Anthony, Rachel, and Ryan, and 6 Great Grandchildren: Christopher, Devin, Avery, Emma, Harper and Carly.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years Janet, son Roger, and siblings: Richard, Donald, Donna, Frank, Kenneth, and Linda.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

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