James "Jim" Lautt

James “Jim / Jimmy” Lee Lautt, 90, of West Fargo, ND, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Sanford Hospice House, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born on May 29, 1935, in Harvey, ND, to Riney and Agnes (Stuber) Lautt. He spent his early years in Chaseley, ND, attending school in Hurdsfield, and later moved with his family to Chaffee, ND, where he graduated from high school. During his school years, Jim was active in basketball, choir, and yearbook.

On February 7, 1958, Jim married the love of his life, Eleanor Heger, at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fargo, ND. Together, they built a life and raised their family in West Fargo.

Jim was known for his strong work ethic and friendly personality. He began his career as a mechanic at City Service before opening his own service station. He later found his calling as a route delivery driver, first with Holsum Bread and then Old Dutch chips. After 36 years of dedicated service, Jim “retired” in 2001. Retirement, however, didn’t last long—just one month later, he joined the team at Hornbacher’s grocery store, where he continued working for the next 25 years. Jim became a familiar and beloved face to customers and took great pride in the awards he received for his outstanding customer service.

Jim was always happiest when he was busy and helping others. Even at 90 years old, he could be found in the winter driving his John Deere tractor through the neighborhood, clearing snow for neighbors. In the summer, he enjoyed mowing lawns and caring for his lots near Cormorant Lake.

A lifelong lover of vehicles, Jim never missed an opportunity to talk about cars. He was known for asking anyone he met, “What vehicle did you drive today?”—a simple question that often led to meaningful conversations.

Jim touched countless lives with his kindness, cheerful smile, and warm heart. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his brother, Harley (Sharon) Lautt of Enderlin, ND; his children, Mike (Teresa) Lautt of Fargo, ND; Kevin (Kim) Lautt of Arthur, ND; and Lisa (Ron) Arth of Bismarck, ND; eight grandchildren: Jennifer (Robert) Norton, Noele (Adam) Hess, Joe (Tanya) Lautt, Brian (Ashley) Lautt, Sarahanne (Taylor) Skwiera, Cody Arth, Emily (Allen) Wetzel, and Tanner (Mary) Lautt; two step-grandsons, Derek Whalen and Bryce Whalen; and 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Eleanor; his daughter, Kathy; his sisters, Jane Lautt and Betty Asche; granddaughter-in-law Haley Arth, great-grandchildren Easton and Carter Supler, as well as several brothers- and sisters-in-law.

Visitation: Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at West Funeral Home, West Fargo, ND.

Funeral Service: Friday, April 10, 2026 at 10:30 AM at West Funeral Home, West Fargo, ND.

Interment: Friday, April 10, 2026 at Sunset Memorial Gardens, Fargo, ND.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

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