James Elmore Neil

James E. Neil, 76, East Grand Forks, MN, passed away peacefully on July 2nd, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born Aug. 25th, 1949, in Fosston, MN to Elmore and Mabel (Bateman) Neil. He graduated from Central High School in 1968, before he proudly serving his country in the United State Navy.

Jim married the love of his life, Sandy Ebertowski on April 23rd, 1975, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Together they built a beautiful family and raised 4 children. He went onto build a career with the East Grand Forks Parks and Recreation Department, where he worked as a foreman until his retirement in 2011.

Jim was known for his gentle spirit, generous heart, and quiet kindness. He was an amazing brother, husband, dad, uncle, friend and grandpa. He was the definition of dependable. Whether he was remodeling a home, building a deck, shingling with his family, or lending a hand to a friend or neighbor, he found joy in working alongside those he loved. His unwavering love and dedication in caring for his wife was unmatched. You would often find Jim tending to his lawn, enjoying the outdoors, or tinkering in the garage. He loved nature and spending time on his deck visiting with family and friends. He enjoyed playing on the floor with his grandkids, including the four-legged ones. He spent countless hours supporting his children and grandchildren in all their activities. He wore the title Papa proudly.

He will be deeply missed by his family and all who have had the privilege of knowing him. Jim is survived by his children: Tina (Bob) Hanson, Tricia Sersland, Travis (Jennifer) Neil, and Tammy (Jesse) Johnson; his beloved grandchildren, Stephanie Coauette, Rachele Neil, Casey and Anthony Coauette; Ashley (Guillaume) Tike, Faith Sersland, Madalyn (Simon) Fisher; Josh, Brody, Ryan and Theo Neil; Brittney Neil (Billy Michalski), Ryder & Easton Johnson, Jasmine Ebertowski; great grandchildren: Lenni and Louis Tike, and a large loving network of extended family and friends.

He was proceeded in death by his beloved wife, parents, brother’s Bob & Ray and sisters Barb & Carole.

James Elmore Neil, 76, of East Grand Forks, MN, passed away Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND. A service to remember and celebrate Jim's life will be held Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 11:00am at Amundson Funeral Home in Grand Forks, ND. Visitation with the family will be held an hour prior to services.