Obituary of Jim Melton Fredericksen

James Melton Fredericksen, 74 of Lake Park, IA passed away October 18 at Sanford Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD. James (Jim) was born June 13, 1936 in Estherville, IA, son of Dr. James and Olive Fredericksen. After graduating from Estherville High School, he attended Estherville Jr. College and served in the National Guard Armed Forces for several years. Jim began working at Recher Motors in Estherville and went on to manage one of their stores in Sheldon, Iowa. He then married Shirley Rowe for a number of years and to this union the first son, James (Jamie) was born. The family then relocated to Carlisle, Iowa where Jim became employed with Magneto Carburetor and Electric - a small engine distributor in Des Moines, IA. During this time, a second son, Jeffrey (Jeff) was born. In 1973 the family moved to Spirit Lake, IA where Jim was co-owner of a Sidles Mr. Automotive store. After an unfortunate fire destroyed the building, the family took the opportunity in 1976 to open a NAPA Auto Parts store in Lake Park, IA. In 1982 a second NAPA Auto Parts store was opened in Spirit Lake, IA where Jim continued to work until his retirement in 1995. After his retirement, Jim enjoyed his part-time employment at the Lake Park Post Office with his friends. He was a man of many hobbies, some of which, but not limited to were Cushman Motor scooters, antique vehicles, riding motor cycles, and items of historical interest. His latest endeavor and passion was learning to play the accordion. Jim is survived by his two sons, Jamie of Spirit Lake, IA and Jeff of Newnan, GA; one brother, Jerry Fredericksen and wife Sharon of Hayward, WI; niece, Lynn Fredericksen of Minneapolis, MN; and special friend, Jeannie Enabnit of Glencoe, MN.