APRIL 20, 1940 - MAY 24, 2017

James Block, age 77, a resident of Spooner, WI, and also Lakeland, FL, died in Rochester, MN on Wednesday, May 24, 2017, surrounded by family.

 James was born on April 20, 1940, in Birnamwood, WI to parents Edward and Laura (Suze) Block.  He graduated from Birnamwood High School, and furthered his education by graduating from UW Stout in 1962, and then received his Master’s Degree from UW Madison in 1969. James began his working career as a Teacher in Green Bay, WI and became a Guidance Counselor in 1966.  On September 5, 1964, he was united in marriage to Diane Fronek in Antigo, WI.  He would work for several school districts throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota including- Waunakee, Wisconsin High School, DC Everest High School in Schofield, WI, and retired from Spring Valley Kingsland High School, in Spring Valley, MN in 2005.   James volunteered his time as a teacher, educator, and also as a part time officer for the Olmstead Sheriff’s Department from 1982- 1995.  James had a knack for woodworking, carpentry, architecture, designing and building several of the homes they lived in.  He enjoyed nature, reading, traveling with his wife Diane, and after her death took up cooking and baking.  He was a member of the Exchange Club, was often thought of as a Conservationist by those who knew him, and enjoyed being involved with his community and family. 

James is survived by his sons: Curt (Becky Johnston) Block of Rochester, MN, Allan Block of Minneapolis, MN, and grandsons: Alexander and Rowan of Mpls/St. Paul.  He is preceded in death by his wife Diane, parents, sister Doris, and brothers: Lyle, Dick, and Roy.

Funeral services for James Block will be held on Thursday, June 1, 2017, at the Lakeside Community Lutheran Church at 11am, with Pastor Bill Schroeder officiating.  Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 31, 2017, at the Spooner Funeral Home from 4 to 7, and also on Thursday at the Church from 10 to 11. 

In lieu of flowers or monetary memorials, please take the opportunity to plant a tree in James’ memory.

Last Update: Dec 16, 2018 5:41 pm CST