James LeRoy Kooyer

James L. Kooyer age 76 of Detroit Lakes, MN died May 12, 2016 at Ecumen – Emmanuel Nursing Home in Detroit Lakes, MN. James LeRoy Kooyer was born February 23, 1940 in Moose Lake, MN to Victor and Blanche Morehouse Kooyer. He grew up and attended schools in Thief River Falls, MN, Superior, WI, and Rockford, IL. He served in the United States Navy from 1957 – 1958. Following his discharge he returned to Thief River Falls and on July 2, 1960 was united in marriage to Carol Anton. They made their home in various cities throughout Minnesota before moving to Detroit Lakes in 1973, where Jim worked for Mahube. Jim loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing and camping. He also enjoyed square dancing, where he also participated as a caller and teacher. He is survived by Carol Kooyer; one son, Kenneth (Brian) Kooyer, of Crystal, MN; three daughters, Kathi (George) Carden, of Crystal, MN; Kristi (Jay) Nelson, of Fargo, ND; and Kelli (Jeff) Atchison, of Lake Park, MN; five grandchildren, Laura, Matthew, Stacie, Tanisha, and Savanna; two great grandchildren, Althea and Michael; four sisters, Barb (Earl) Granroth; Betty (Norm) VeVea; Doris (Duane) Rindahl; and Debbie Dean; one brother, Ray (Caroline) Kooyer; aunt, Dorothy Morehouse; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kerri Kooyer Drees; his parents; one sister, Shirley Wiskerchen; and three brothers, Richard, Donald, and Glenn Kooyer.The family would like to thank Dr. Preston Steen, Emmanuel Nursing Home Staff, and Hospice of the Red River Valley for all their care and compassion.