James Orien Klath

  James Orien Klath of Mayville, ND died peacefully surrounded by family on July 7, 2023.

   Orien was born August 18, 1931 at the family farm near Portland.  He was the son of Albert and Helma (Heskin) Klath.  He was raised near Portland, ND and attended grade school in Enger Township and Portland.  He attended and graduated from Portland High School.  Orien was 17 years old when his father passed away and at that time he took over the farm.

   Orien married the love of his life Elaine Grinde on July 8, 1956 at Bruflat church in Portland.  They raised two sons and two daughters.  Mary, Curtis, Kristi and Matthew.

   Orien was always community minded and served on the Credit Union, May-Port Farmers Elevator and the Luther Memorial Home boards.  He was a 4-H leader and was a dedicated servant and held many offices at Bang church.

   Orien enjoyed working with young people and helping them however he could.  Many young men worked for Orien though the years and with his patience they learned many good work ethics.  He always found time to help and listen to others.

   Orien enjoyed music and sang in several choirs and quartets.  He also played his trombone and was a member of Toastmaster International.  Orien was a great steward of the land and used conservative methods.  Orien loved every aspect of creation and nature.  His biggest joy was to be with family on trips, camping, fishing or hunting.

   He is survived by his spouse of 67 years Elaine Klath, Curtis (Brenda) Klath, Dustin Klath (January) Lennix; Travis (Jennifer) Wesley Klath, Kali (Aaron) Lee; Kristi (Bruce) Olson, Davis (Jessica) Jaxon DeSautel, Brandon (Dawnelle) Rowan DeSautel; Matthew (Kathy) Jacob and Ryan Klath and six step grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

   Proceeded in death by his parents, Albert and Helma Klath, siblings, Eleanor, Agnes and Joyce and daughter Mary.

Visitation:  Will be 5–7 PM on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 with a 7:00 PM Public Prayer Service at the Bang Lutheran Church in rural Portland, ND and will resume one hour prior to the service.

Funeral Service: Will be held at 10:30 AM Thursday, July 13, 2023 at the Bang Lutheran Church in Portland, ND.

Burial: Will be in the Bang Cemetery in Portland, ND.