Brekken, James M. Age 77, died peacefully at home in Bloomington on Saturday, August 16, 2008. He was born in St. James, MN, to Martin and Olga Brekken, served in the U.S. Navy and attended the University of Minnesota and St. Thomas College. He dedicated 35 years to the Bloomington Police Department serving as Chief of Police from 1973 to 1977. Jim believed strongly in the importance of continuing education, both for himself and for others. In 1959 he was awarded a Kemper scholarship to attend the Traffic Institute at Northwestern College, a one-year program in advanced police management courses. In 1970 he received a Bush Leadership Fellowship, which he used to attend the Program for Management Development at Harvard Business School. Early in his career, Jim developed the first training programs for the Bloomington police. Later he taught police administration at Mankato State College, management seminars at The Management Center at St. Thomas College, and from 1961 to 1967 was co-director of the Suburban Police Academy. He will also be remembered for his leadership in the development of the seven-county 911 Telephone System, for which he was awarded "The Officer" in 1983 from the Minneapolis Police Department for significant contribution to law enforcement services. He also served as the first Executive Director of the Metropolitan 911 Telephone Board. He is survived by his wife, Constance; sons, Scott (Deborah) and Jeffrey (Deborah); his stepdaughter, Monica (Brian) Kremer and grandchildren, Michael, Kathryn, Katelin, Jacob and Andrew. He was a warm caring, generous husband, father and grandfather who will be missed by all. Special thanks to Fairview Hospice employees for their skill and compassion in caring for Jim. Memorials preferred to Second Harvest Heartland, 1140 Gervais Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55109-2020 or Bridging, 201 W. 87th St., Bloomington, MN. Memorial service Monday, August 25 at 2 pm, with visitation 1 hour prior to service at: Washburn-McReavy Werness Brothers Chapel 2300 W Old Shakopee Rd 952-884-8145
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
Jeff and entire Brekken Family,
On behalf of the Burmeister family we are sorry to hear of the loss of a great man. I remember many a backyard BBQ and the love he showed a little blonde haired girl, who adored his Jeff. Thank you for sharing him with me those days
Amy (Burmeister) Radick
August 25, 2008
To the family of James Brekken:
Please accept our sympathy for your loss. It was an honor to be with James during his final days. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sincerely,
The Fairview Hospice Team
Fairview Hospice
August 25, 2008 | Minneapolis, MN
Jeff and Scott and families: I worked with your Dad many years ago and remember you as little guys. We were very good friends of your Dad and Mom. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Mimi & Chuck Christensen
Mimi Christensen
August 25, 2008 | Bloomington, MN
Remembered by Betty Pixley, by Karen Pixley Tutch.
Karen Tutch
August 24, 2008 | Ft Myers Beach, GA
He was my Captain, my mentor, and my 'old friend'. Jim will be missed and always remembered with love and gratitude. My sympathy to his wonderful family.
Tess Newell
August 24, 2008 | Lakeville, MN
Monica, Brian and family - our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family. Your dad is at peace and will always be an angel watching over you.
God Bless
Dan & Leslie Mueller
Leslie Mueller
August 21, 2008 | Prior Lake, MN
