James Erick Tormoen

TORMOEN, JAMES E. “Jim”

Age 92 of New Brighton. After spending over 9 months in home hospice, and surrounded by his wife and 3 daughters, Jim went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on February 7, 2026.

Born in White Butte Township South Dakota, Jim's family (including 5 brothers, 4 sisters) also lived in Thief River Falls and then N.E. Mpls.

Jim graduated from Washburn High School and had a B.S. in Education (with distinction) and an M.A. in Educational Psychology (plus 60 credits) from the University of Minnesota. His career included working as a Vocational Rehab Counselor for the Dept. of Education, a Psychological Examiner for the Social Security Admin., a School Psychologist for the Fridley Public Schools for 32 years. Jim was also a half-time Psychologist for the Rum River Co-op. He was also certified as a Licensed Consulting Psychologist and did free lance work in other areas. Jim was a member of many professional organizations.

Jim was a deeply kind person who lived with integrity and honesty. He had an incredible smile, a great sense of humor, and an infectious laugh. He always looked for the best in others. Jim had a great connection with people through encouraging, supporting, coaching, and sharing his wisdom. He loved sharing stories and having a good laugh. He was known to family and others as “Mr. Fixit.” He was always available to fix cars, appliances, do household repairs, cut lawns, and shovel driveways to help out when anyone had a need.

He was a devoted husband and father who loved his wife and daughters dearly. He supported and coached his three daughters throughout elementary, high school, and college years.

Jim was very athletic and competitive. He played on softball and basketball teams, enjoyed horseshoes, and was an avid golfer. Playing “500” cards once a month with family kept them close and created wonderful family memories together. Jim enjoyed sudoku and crossword puzzles. He was a die-hard Viking and Twins fan.

In his retirement years, Jim went on many road trips in MN and WISC. with his wife Eleanore. They enjoyed God's creation and changing seasons while bird watching (especially eagles) and listening to “Elvis” songs on the car stereo.

Preceded in death by son Scott, parents Carl and Stella. Brothers: Tommy, George, Vern, Earl, Carl “Bud” Jr. Sisters: Millie Pfarr, and Gladys Landers, Daughter-in-law: Cathy La Fountaine.

Jim is survived by his wife of 66 years, Eleanore. Daughters: Sabrina, Shannon, Sonya and “adopted” daughter Lisa Baumgarth. Sisters: Joyce Meichels (joined him in heaven the following day), and Shirley Tormoen. Sisters-in-law: Shirley Mae Tormoen and Nancy Devoy. Also nieces, nephews, cousins, and other cherished relatives and friends including life long friend Tom Goodoien.

A heartfelt thank you to the Allina Hospice teams who provided exceptional care and support throughout his time in home hospice.

Our family, with deepest gratitude and appreciation, wish to acknowledge all the prayers and encouragement from individuals and churches across the United States. During this 9 month journey we were given grace and strength, upheld by your prayers. We send our love and thank yous to each and everyone of you.

In lieu of a funeral service, Jim would desire that you celebrate his life and your memories, by serving others and always showing love, respect, and kindness to everyone.

We welcome you to share memories or photos of Jim with our family in the Guestbook below.

To look at the reflections of his daughters Sabrina, Shannon, and Sonya, go to the Guestbook and look at February 10th date posted.