James Adolph Zach

James Adolph Zach, 70, a resident of Fergus Falls, died Sunday, November 19, 2017, at the VA Hospital in Fargo, ND.

He was born on October 9, 1947, to Ignatz and Doretta (Bernard) Zach at St. Mary’s Hospital in Wahpeton, North Dakota.

James graduated from High School in Fairmont, ND in 1965. In April of 1968, he entered the United States Army. He served in Vietnam and was severely wounded on September 22, 1968. James was awarded the Purple Heart for his actions. He spent 6 months recuperating in Fitzsimons Hospital in Denver, CO, and was discharged in April of 1969.

On July 5th, 1969, James married Bernadeen Brutlag. To this union, a son, Brad was born.

James graduated from Wahpeton State College of Science in 1971. He was employed by Bell Telephone Laboratories after graduation. James eventually returned to North Dakota to work at Zach’s Repair and Manufacturing in Fairmount, ND with his father and brothers. He spent many years doing free-lance construction until retiring in 2007.
James enjoyed fishing, candle-making, playing cards, and making puzzles. He especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

He was a life member and past commander (91-92) of VFW Post 612 (Fergus Falls). James was twice named National Aide-De-Camp to the National Commander of the VFW. He was also a life member of American Legion Post 30, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 25, and the International War Veterans Alliance. James served on the VFW Memorial Honor Guard since 1986. He was a member and board member of the Fergus Falls Veterans Walk of Flags, a past member and President of the Fergus Falls Veteran’s Council, and he spent 10 years as a volunteer at Adam’s Elementary School.

Preceding him in death were his parents; sister and brother-in-law, Cecilia (Stewart) Klefstad; brother and sister-in-law, Paul (Marie) Zach; nephew, Corey Zach; and brother-in-law, Gene Larson.

Survivors include his son, Brad (Brook) Zach; grandchildren, Zoee, Zander, and Collin Zach; step-daughter, Sharon Kent; step-grandchild, Zach Wiese; siblings, Joan Larson (Keith Snorkleland), Maria (Jerry) Stokka, Joe (Karlee) Zach, Teresa (Dave) Osten; former spouses; Bernadeen and Theresa; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and good friends. James is also survived by his faithful friend and neighbor, Nate Kuhn.

Time of Remembrance: 1:00-3:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 22, 2017, at Olson Funeral Home, Fergus Falls

Military Participation: Fergus Falls V.F.W. Post 612 and American Legion Post 30

Interment: Knollwood Memorial Gardens, Fergus Falls

Arrangements are provided by the Olson Funeral Home, Fergus Falls

Online condolences may be sent to www.OlsonFuneralHome.com