James Carpenter Obituary Carpenter, James E. (Jim) age 85, of Orono, Burnsville, Faribault. Died September 11, 2013. Preceded in death by wife Janet; daughters Jody & Melanie; sister Marilyn; Survived by daughter Deborah Carpenter-Rand; son James (Becky); sister Beverly; brothers Robert, Dale and Michael; grandchildren Carrie & Sarah Rand, Laura, Julia and Collin Carpenter; great granddaughter Sofia; son-in-law John Rand and a large extended family and friends. Hailing from NE Minneapolis, Jim met his future wife Janet in grade school. Graduating from Edison High he enlisted in the National Guard and became a Master Sargent during the Korean War, where he met his life-long friend Marvin Sandy Sanderson. Born with a fire in his belly, Jim worked successfully in the automobile business for 45 years. Jim loved a good conversation, at times a provocateur to get one going. Among the other things he loved, and in no particular order: Jan, his family, work, fishing, telling stories, the Vikings (when winning), Martinis, cigarettes and a lot of salt on his food. Jim had a good sense of humor and was a fierce believer in we the people and a proud, life-long democrat. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred to the family. Funeral Service 3PM Saturday, October 19, 2013 at St. Edwards Episcopal Church, 865 Ferndale Road North, Wayzata with visitation starting at 2PM.  Born: May 18, 1928 Death: September 11, 2013 Share your thoughts and memories in the guestbook.