James Truax, age 93, of Deer Creek, passed away on January 2, 2024, at Good Samaritan Society in Battle Lake. Funeral Services were held on Friday, January 12, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Deer Creek with Pastor Don Wagner officiating. Congregational Hymns were accompanied by Marcus Lueders. Pallbearers are James’ grandchildren: Shelly Gowan, Brad Truax, JJ Truax, Matt Blevins, Dana Blevins, Ashley Prepeluh, Jordan Wohlwend, Tyler Wohlwend, Ryan Truax, Brandon Truax, Austin Hubble, Cherry McGee and Louise McGee. James will be laid to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery, Deer Creek.

James George Truax was born on February 22, 1930, to Clifford and Emma (Branstner) Truax at home in Otter Tail County, Oak Valley Township. At 4 years old he and his family moved to the Wrightstown area. Nine years later, they moved to the Bertha-Hewitt area where James helped his dad on the farm. He attended Woodside County Country School through the 8th grade.

On March 29, 1952, James was united in marriage to Darlene Wardien in Deer Creek. Their marriage was blessed with six children: Steve (Sandy) Truax, Pam (Steve) Blevins, Joyce (Scott) Wohlwend, Greg (Kathy) Truax, Tim (LuAnne) Truax, and Gail (Monty) Hubble.

James was drafted into the United States Army on July 11, 1952. Following basic training he was sent to Korea where he was in active combat for 9 months. After the fighting ended, James took his Confirmation instruction in Korea with Chaplin Colonel Scheck. Upon returning to the States, he was stationed at Camp Carson in Colorado, and was baptized and confirmed by the Chaplin there. James was honorably discharged on April 13, 1954, achieving 2 Bronze Stars and 2 Battle Stars. He was very proud to have served his country.

When James returned home, he bought his father-in-law’s farm in Deer Creek and farmed for over 40 years. He was a member of the Creamery Board, where he served for many years. He was also a member of the Midland Board, a charter member of the Deer Creek Lions Club, he was a very proud co-founder of the Deer Creek Museum in 1999, a chairman at Deer Creek Lutheran Church, a lifetime member of the Deer Creek American Legion, and a lifetime member of Elmer Goche V.F.W Post #3922 in Wadena. James enjoyed hunting especially Elk hunting, his bowling team, fishing, softball and telling jokes to anyone that would listen. James looked forward to family get-togethers, with good food.

Preceding James in death are his parents, Clifford and Emma; father and mother-in-law, Ernest and Elsie Wardien; son, Steven; granddaughter, Angie Blevins grandson, Trevor Blevins; brother, Lawrence; sister, Helen Greenwaldt; brother and sister-in-law, Earl and Florance.

James is survived by his wife, Darlene; children: Pam (Steve) Blevins; Joyce (Scott) Wohlend; Greg (Kathy) Truax; Tim (Lu Anne) Truax and Gail (Monty) Hubble; daughter-in-law, Sandy Truax; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law: Shirley (Harris) Bendix and Maxine Truax; many other relatives and a host of friends.

Memorials are preferred to the Trinity Lutheran Memorial Fund or the Deer Creek Museum.

Please visit www.karvonenfuneralhome.com to leave memorials and condolences on James’ Tribute Wall.

Arrangements provided by Karvonen Funeral & Cremation Service of Wadena.