James Earl Walster Sr.

James Earl Walster Sr., 79, beloved husband of Carol Walster of 59 years and loved father of Dian, Jane and Jim Waster, passed away Jan. 27, 2008.

Parents were Clinton Earl Walster and Mabel Crerar Walster. He was born in Grand Forks, N.D., on April 8, 1928.

He spent time in Larimore, N.D., Cavalier, N.D., and Springfield, Ore. He spent two years at North Dakota State University in Fargo, N.D., and served in the U.S. Navy, receiving an honorable discharge. He worked as a parts manager for Ford/Mercury/Lincoln and his hobbies and interests included shrine clown, model airplanes, and gardening.

He was a member of the Big Bend Shrine Club, the Benevolent Order of the Elks, and the Moses Lake Masonic Lodge.

He was president of Pacific Northwest Clown Association, received the National Gold Medallion Manager Award from the Ford Motor Company, and was elected to city council in Cavalier, N.D.

James is survived by his wife, Carol Walster whom he married on May 22, 1949; daughter Dian Walster of Detroit, Mich., daughter, Jane Walster, Springfield, Ore., son James Walster Jr. of Roseville, Minn., and five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by grandchild Carmen Carol Tomberlin in 1977.

He will be greatly missed.

Memorial contributions can be made to Shriner's Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, Fla., 33607-1460.