James Mott

James Mott, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on March 10, 2025, at SMP Health St. Catherine South in Fargo, North Dakota. Born on December 21, 1944, in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, James was the son of Charles and Selma Mott. He grew up in the area and graduated from Audubon High School in 1962.

James proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy, enlisting on May 32, 1962, and was honorably discharged on April 18, 1966. After a brief hiatus, he reenlisted in November 1967 and completed his military career in October 1969. During his service, he was stationed aboard the USS St. Paul and the USS Ernest G. Small, experiences he held dear throughout his life.

On November 20, 1971, James married Mary Teiken at 1st Lutheran Church, establishing a partnership that flourished over the years. The couple moved to Grand Forks in 1973, where James worked at Minnkota Power until his retirement on May 6, 2005. He was a dedicated employee and a hard worker, earning the respect of his colleagues.

James was a proud lifetime member of the VFW and briefly participated in a bowling league. He enjoyed being outdoors, spending time mowing his lawn on his tractor, snowmobiling, and riding on his six-wheeler. One of his greatest joys was connecting with people in his community, especially his neighbors, and he was deeply proud of his military career and his family.

James is survived by his loving wife, Mary Mott; his son, Jason (Rebecca); his twin grandsons, Henry and Levi; his brother, David (Jean) Mott; his sister, Fern Graff; and his loving foster family, the Sletmoens: Russ, Gene (Carol), Rick (Sandy), Sherry (Gary), Deborah (Greg), and Judy, along with many other family members and friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Selma Mott; his brothers, Curtis, Norris, Darald, and Rodney Mott; his sisters, Ruby and Elaine; and his foster brother, Doug Sletmoen, as well as many other family and friends.

Friends are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on March 18, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at David-Donehower Funeral & Cremation Service, 609 US Hwy 10 East, Detroit Lakes, MN. A funeral service will follow at the same location beginning at 12:00 PM and a luncheon will follow after. James will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Cemetery.

James Mott's legacy of loving family and service to his country will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.