James E. Ellinger, 68, formerly of Crookston, passed away July 13, 2010 in Evergreen, Colo.
Jim was born in Crookston. He spent his early years in Castro Valley, Calif., where he graduated from high school in 1960. He met Sharon Haskin at San Jose State and they were married in 1963.
While attending the University of North Dakota earning Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in industrial arts, he started making aluminum castings. This grew to become DEE, Inc. in 1975. This business continues as a leading manufacturer of aluminum castings and a machining operation, and one of Crookston's major employers.
Jim was a gifted builder. Whether building cars, houses, or a company, he truly enjoyed the challenges of taking a concept and turning it into something lasting. He taught industrial arts at Highland Middle School for several years before concentrating on his business full time.
His greatest joy was his family. He hoped to survive his challenges with cancer so that he could continue to be an active part in their lives. He gave it his all.
Jim is survived by his wife Sharon, son Todd (Kara) Ellinger and two grandsons, daughter Jaymie (Milan) Larson and two granddaughters, sisters Jeri Ellinger and Mary (Gary) Jagoe, nephew Dave (Nicole) Jagoe, niece Marcie (Rick) Billings and families, and cousins Gary and Mike Ellinger. Preceding him in death are parents Earl and Donna Ellinger.
Plans are pending for a celebration of Jim's life with DEE, Inc.
