James Patrick Daun

James "Jim" P. Daun, age 85 of Morton, passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at Parkview Senior Living in Belview, MN. Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at the Nelson-Hillestad Funeral Home in Redwood Falls. A luncheon will be served after the service. He will be laid to rest following the luncheon in the beautiful Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Morton. A visitation will be held 2 hours before his service from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home in Redwood Falls.

Arrangements are with Nelson-Hillestad Funeral and Cremation Service of Redwood Falls. E-mail condolences may be sent via www.nelson-hillestad.com.

James Patrick Daun, son of John Frederick and Mary Ellen (Farenbaugh) Daun, was born on March 17, 1940, in Redwood Falls, where he would grow to leave an indelible mark on those around him. Jim was born with Cerebral Palsy and Spastic hemiplegia on his right side. When he was 7 years old, he spent two and a half months at Gillette Children’s Specialty Care Hospital, where he had surgery on his right foot. He spent 2 months at Gillette Children’s for surgery on his right hand at age 10, and another 2 months for surgery on his right forearm at age 11. He recovered and lived life to the fullest. His disabilities did not slow him down; the resilience he developed served him well.

Jim dedicated 32 years of his life to working at Dekalb in Redwood Falls, contributing significantly to production and distribution before retiring in 1993. His professional journey was not only a testament to his hard work but also to his commitment to community. Beyond his career, Jim's passions included traveling the scenic landscapes of both the East and West Coasts, often taking the opportunity to visit his beloved sister, Rita, in Anderson, CA.

Education played an integral role in shaping Jim's character. He graduated from Morton High School in 1958, where he found joy and camaraderie in various sports. These early experiences instilled in him a commitment to teamwork and resilience. Jim was well-known not only for his accomplishments but also for his generous spirit and unwavering kindness. He stood by many, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer wise counsel to those in need, embodying the very essence of being a devoted friend and neighbor. Jim was content, aging with grace, dignity, and humor, even as he declined.

Jim's interests were wide-ranging. A passionate Minnesota sports fan, he celebrated the thrills of the Twins, Vikings, and Lynx. He took particular delight in attending Redwood Valley High School ballgames, whether cheering from the stands or watching intently from home. When he wasn’t advocating for his favorite teams, Jim enjoyed nurturing his garden, reading, traveling, often by motorcycle, playing card games with family and friends, listening to music, singing in the church choir, and sharing moments that would become treasured memories.

In addition to his many interests, Jim devoted over 40 years of service to various charitable organizations, including the Lions Club, St. John's and St. Catherine’s Catholic Churches, the Senior Center in Morton, and the Red Cross. He financially contributed to many, many more charitable organizations, often anonymously. His commitment to bettering the lives of those around him reflected his deep-rooted compassion and empathy.

Jim is survived by his loving nieces: Mary (Tim) Daun-Lindberg of Rochester, MN, Pat Daun of Morton, MN, Cherie (Dave) Wright of Redding, CA, Laura Todd of McKinleyville, CA, brother-in-law Russ Todd of Anderson, CA, and his dear longtime friend, Mel Buehler, who stood by him through the many seasons of life. Also, many great and great-great nieces and nephews.

He joins in eternal rest with his parents, John, “Fred” and Mary Ellen; his dear sister, Rita Todd, who passed on November 16, 2025, just a few days before Jim; his brother, John "Jack" Francis Daun; his sister-in-law, Eva Daun; and his nieces and nephews, Jackie, Donna, Terry, and David Daun. Their memories will be cherished, and Jim’s legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.

In this time of sorrow, let us remember Jim for the light he brought into our lives, the kindness he shared, and the love that will forever endure in our hearts. It’s not a sad story, just the end of a good, long life.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Parkview Senior Living for their compassionate care and to Hospice of CentraCare for their support during Jim's final journey.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Parkview Senior Living in Belview, MN, the Morton Fire Department, Morton Senior Center, the Renville County Historical Society and Museum in Morton, Gillette Children’s Foundation, or a charity of your choice.