Bennett James "Jim" Garner

Bennett James “Jim” Garner of Aitkin passed away Saturday, May 7, 2022 on his 93rd  birthday.  He was born May 7, 1929 in St. Paul to Bennett James “Ben” and Edith (Ellingsen) Garner.  Jim was a US Air Force veteran, serving during the Korean War.  He served 4 years, where he honed his baking and leadership skills. He graduated from the University of Minnesota and embarked on a dedicated education career, including 33 years with Edina Public Schools and 8 years substitute teaching in Aitkin and Crosby schools during his retirement. An educator in every way, he introduced Beowulf, Chaucer, Shakespeare, composition, reading skills, and the history & strategies of rock picking to a multitude of young people. Jim was a humanitarian who loved his family, God, working with young people, and living on his farm / nature conversancy outside of Aitkin. 

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Sharon (Loehndorf) Garner;

Children: Amy Elise (Butch) Jones and Alison (John) Hoffman;

Grandchildren: Joren, Lauralyn and Nolan Hoffman, Kjersten and Mitchell Jones;

Sister: Marge Menge;

Brother: Jack Garner;

And loved nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

His Lord said unto him “Well done, thou good and faithful servant~”

Matthew 25:21

Memorial service will be 1pm – Friday, May 13, 2022 at St. John’s Lutheran Church – Cedarbrook in rural Aitkin.  Pastor David Peterson will officiate.  Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service at the church.  Arrangements are with Sorensen-Root-Thompson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Aitkin.  Go to www.srtfuneral.com to leave a message of condolence.

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