James "Jimmy" Brunette, age 71, of Waubun, MN, died Monday, March 31, 2014, at his home.

James Raymond Brunette was born February 2, 1943, in White Earth, MN, to Simon and Effie (Smith) Brunette. He spent his childhood growing up in the Naytahwaush, MN, area. As a young man, Jimmy entered the United States Army. He proudly served from May of 1967 until May of 1969. Following his honorable discharge, Jimmy returned to the Naytahwaush area to make his home. Over the years, he did seasonal work, mostly as a heavy equipment operator. Jimmy also worked trapping, leeching and making birch baskets. On August 16, 1983, James was united in marriage to Carmen Brown. The couple made their home east of Waubun, MN, where they raised their family.

Jimmy enjoyed watching the birds and squirrels, two of which he named. More than the wildlife, he loved spending time with all his family, especially his grandchildren. Jimmy also liked playing his guitar and listening to country music, particularly that of George Jones and Hank Williams. He loved to play chess, cards, poker, shoot pool and baseball games, mostly the Minnesota Twins. Jimmy maintained a special relationship with his oldest son, James Jr. He taught him many things he will be able to use throughout his life. They were even able to finish each other's thoughts and actions.

James is survived by his wife, Carmen; children: Jamie Sargent, Melanie Sargent, Sasha Burnette, James Burnette Jr., Simon Burnette, George (Beth Hill) Burnette, Shari (Kevin Durant Sr.) Burnette, Effie (Eugene Carpenter Sr.) Burnette, all of Naytahwaush; 20 grandchildren; and many extended family including daughter, Amanda Alger, mother-in-law, Bernadette Brown and the entire Brown Family. He was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law; Bill Brown; son-in-law, Rick Thompson; siblings: George, Ivan, Eddie, John, William, Clifford, Mary and Pete; special niece, Cheryl Brown; and nephews, Kevin Brown Jr., and Robbie Brown.

He will be greatly missed by all his family.

Funeral Services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 4, 2014, at the Sports Complex in Naytahwaush, MN. Visitation was at the complex beginning on Thursday, April 3, 2014, at 5:00 p.m. with a 7:00 p.m. Prayer Service and will continue until the Funeral.

Interment was held at St. Anne's Catholic Cemetery, Naytahwaush.