James Harley Love, 81, from Henning, passed away, surrounded by family, on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2009, at Lake Region Hospital in Fergus Falls.
He was born Dec. 16, 1927 to Carrie and Earl Love in Minneapolis. He was baptized and confirmed at Nidaros Lutheran Church in Clitherall. He graduated from Battle Lake High School in 1945 and then joined the Air Force. He served as an air traffic controller in Germany and Italy for several years. Upon his return to Minnesota, he purchased and operated his own farm as well as worked as a foreman for the railroad. In 1987, he retired after 27 years of operating heavy equipment with Mark Sand and Gravel. He married Johanna Neis on Jan. 28, 1953 in Bertha. They had 12 children together.
He was musically talented and played the fiddle and guitar for more than 20 years in a band called the Variety Playboys. He and Johanna enjoyed a passion for travel. They visited their children in international locations and throughout the U.S.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, Jan. 7, at Nidaros Lutheran Church, Clitherall, with the Rev. Darrell Vetter officiating. Casket bearers were Casey Love, Michael Love, Kristoffer Anderson, Dave Crowser, Steve Kramer and Randy Johnson. Interment is in the Girard Union Cemetery near Henning. The Belmont Funeral Home in Henning was in charge of arrangements. Online condolences can be posted at www.belmontfuneral.com .
Survivors include his wife and children, Karen (Larry) Love-Kugler, Kevin (Judi) Love, Kristy (Jeff) Love-Anderson, Kay (Steve) Love-Miletto, Kathy (Brad Latzke) Love, Kory (Beth) Love, Kim (Bill) Love-Hatling, Konnie (Ken) Love, Karla (Don Burdick) Love, Kandace Love, Kendra (Greg) Love-Gack; 16 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his first cousin, who was like a sister, Harriet (Al) Crowser; and his beloved cat, Sebastian.
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He was preceded in death by his parents, Aunt Inga, Uncle John and his son, Karl.
