Leland B James

Leland B James, (Jesse) 81, of Grand Portage passed away December 6th, 2024 in the North Shore Health Hospital with his wife by his side.

Jess was born in Ada, Minnesota on May 11, 1943 to Margaret (Marge) and Loren James. They lived a short time in Ohio. At the age of 4, Jess and his mom moved to Grand Portage where she later married Elmer Spry. Jess lived most of his life in Grand Portage. He worked many jobs in the county, planting trees, working on building Judge Magney State Park. Trust Lands and Carpentry for Grand Portage until he retired after 24 years as the Maintenance Engineer at the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino.

Jess will be remembered for his guitar playing and his love of music (one of his nephews once called him the greatest guitar player), lunch with the “boys” at the ENP, fishing, riding the Rangers, and spending “slip-on” night with his brothers (where he enjoyed story telling) .He had a kind and gentle heart and was devoted to his family.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Pauline and his special little dog Abby; daughter Charlene, son Roger (Kathren), daughters Cherie and Julie, son Matthew (Christa). 10 Grandchildren and 18 great Grandchildren. Siblings:Michael (Carolyn), Duane, Larry, Shirley, Debbie and many nieces and nephews. A special bonus granddaughter, Alisa. He has two brothers Steven and Gregory in Ohio. (whom he was able to connect with 5 years ago).

He is preceded in death by his parents, step father, son Brian, sister Jeanne (Jerry) and sister in law Lynn (Duane).

Services will be held on December 14th 2024 at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church at 11:00am, luncheon at the Grand Portage Community Center afterward.