James C. Zettel

James C. Zettel, 87, Grand Forks, ND, died Thursday, November 7, 2019 at Valley Senior Living on Columbia, Grand Forks.

James Clairmont Zettel was born September 22, 1932, the son of Stanley and Audienna (Clairmont) Zettel.  He was raised in the Langdon, ND area.  He attended St. Alphonsus High School in Langdon.  After graduation he attended Technical school in Minneapolis, MN.  He married Laurette Marcotte at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Aurora, Illinois on July 23^rd, 1951.  They later resided in Alliance, Nebraska where he worked as a telegrapher for the railroad.  They eventually moved back to the Langdon area where he went into farming with his Father for a couple of years.  He then worked as a mechanic at the International Harvester Dealership in Langdon for seventeen years.  He also worked at Universal parts for several years.  Jim and Laurette moved to Grand Forks, ND in 1974 when he accepted a position as Maintenance Technician at United Hospital (now Altru) until 1996, when he retired.

James is survived by his wife of 68 years, Laurette Zettel, Grand Forks, ND. His children, Betty Kroetsch, Grand Forks, ND; John (Joan) Zettel Breckenridge, MN; Audrey (Arlyn) Pearson, Grand Forks, ND; Sandy (Dan) Filipi, East Grand Forks, MN; Jeff (Julie) Zettel, Merrill IA; 16 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Judy (Glenn) Schmitz, Mekinock, ND; his parents, his brothers Alvin and Richard; an infant grandson Jason Kroetsch and a son-in-law Merle Kroetsch.

He enjoyed the family get togethers and camping at the lake very much, and was always ready to help others.

James’ family is extremely grateful for the staff at Valley Senior Living and Altru Hospice for his care, support and kindness.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church 216 Belmont Rd, Grand Forks. Visitation will be Monday, November 11, 2019 from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a 7:00 PM Prayer Service at Amundson Funeral Home, 2975 South 42nd Street, Grand Forks.  Visitation will continue for the hour before the service in the church. Inurnment will be in Calvary North Cemetery, Grand Forks, ND.