James Clifford Noyes, age 78, of Erskine, MN, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, July 3rd, surrounded by the love of his family. A memorial gathering will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with a 5:30 p.m. prayer service on Thursday, July 9th, at the Carlin Funeral Home in Erskine. Interment will be in Saron Lutheran Cemetery, rural Erskine, at a later date. Military honors will be provided by the National Guard Honors Team. Arrangements are with Carlin Family Funeral Service of Erskine and messages of condolence may be shared at www.carlinfuneral.com.

James was born on January 2, 1948, to Clifford and Ursula Noyes. He lived a life defined by hard work, service, ingenuity, and an unwavering devotion to his family and community.

He proudly served in the Minnesota National Guard from 1966 to 1974, carrying the values of duty, integrity, and service throughout his life.

On April 23, 1971, James married the love of his life, Ranona. Together they shared 55 years of marriage and built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work while raising three sons: Jeremy James (Susan), Jason Clifford Carl (Elena), and Jonathan Curtis (Krystal). He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took immense pride in his family.

In 1974, James and his family returned to Erskine, where he became a respected member of the community. He owned and operated the Jack N Jill Grocery Stores before pursuing his passion for farming. He farmed his own land, willingly helped neighboring farmers whenever they needed assistance, and later operated Minnesota Dehydrated Vegetables until his retirement. Whether at work or at home, James believed in doing every job the right way and took pride in work well done.

A gifted craftsman and natural problem-solver, James enjoyed spending countless hours in his shop building, repairing, and improving just about anything. He also loved farming, fishing, traveling in his RV, and riding motorcycles, finding happiness in life's simple pleasures and the time spent with family and friends.

Above all, James was devoted to those he loved. He was a steady source of guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love. His quiet strength, generous heart, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Ursula Noyes, and his sister, Cathi.

James will be remembered for his honesty, humility, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication to his family. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, and the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in James' memory to:

Erskine Fire Department First Responders

or

Freedom Christian Academy

P.O. Box 115

Erskine, MN 56535