James Felling Obituary, Death – James J. “Jim” Felling, age 76, of Sauk Centre, Minnesota, passed away suddenly on Saturday, May 27, 2023 at his home in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. The underlying cause of death was a natural one.
A Memorial Service or Celebration of Life will take place at a later time. James was born in the city of St. Paul in Minnesota.
He was pleased to have served his country honorably in Vietnam from 1966 through 1968 after graduating from Mechanic Arts High School in St. Paul. One of his most cherished achievements was the acquisition of many service medals, including the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, the Sharpshooter Marksmanship Qualification Badge.
The Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross. In addition, he was awarded two Purple Hearts. Jim was a brilliant musician who performed with local bands in the 1970s and 1980s, most notably with the “Facts of Five” and the “Roving Gamblers.” Jim was recognized for his versions of Elvis Presley’s songs. After some time, he settled in Sauk Centre and made his home on Sauk Lake.
Jim’s nickname among his peers was “Mr. Lucky.” He had a passion for firearms, enjoyed spending time with friends, meeting up with relatives from the Felling and Walz families, providing food for the mallards, engaging in ball games with his dog, continually making modifications to his home, and going shopping. Jim held the local law enforcement officers in the community to the highest regard, and he was pleased to be familiar with all of their identities.
Jim and his fastidious nature were capable of fixing absolutely everything, and the way he did things was invariably the “right way.” He was skilled in several fields, including being a sales representative for Makita, working as a technician in an optical lab, being a professional locksmith, and selling automobiles and campers. Karaoke was a fun outlet for Jim to showcase his musical abilities, and he did so at a number of local venues. He was a man who took great pride in his patriotism and cherished his nation. Jim’s ardor shone out bright and clear in any conversation that he had with a stranger. Jim was active in the Little Sauk Legion Post 417 for many years, serving as its Finance Officer.
