James T. Plank, 89, of Chatfield, passed away on Thursday, October 27, 2016 after a short illness. Jim was born May 18, 1927 to Ralph and Mildred (Todd) Plank. He lived most of his life in the Eyota and Chatfield area. He married Ardith Casler on January 30 1953. Jim served in the Navy from February 1945 to October 1946. He then farmed in the Eyota area before moving to Chatfield in 1956, when he joined Interstate Power Company. He retired in 1989 after 33 years of service.
Jim organized, promoted, and judged many horse events. He was on the original committee for Chatfield Western Days, in addition to service on the Rattlesnake Crossing trail ride and Governor Al Que’s horse show and trail rides. Jim was known for his wonderful woodworking skills. One example is his donation of walking sticks to the Hidden Valley Hiking Trail in Chatfield.
Jim is survived by his wife Ardith, children Dennis (Jill) Kelly of Rochester, Angel (Duane) Bakke of Lanesboro, Patty (Eric) Kammer of Chatfield, and Sherman (Christy) Plank of Douglas, seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and a brother, Dean (Dorothy) Plank of Wabasha. He is preceded in death by their son, Travis James Plank and two sisters.
Memorial service will be held Wednesday, November 2, 2016 at 1 p.m. at United Methodist Church in Chatfield with Pastor Debra Jene Collum officiating. Visitation will be one hour before services at the church. Military honors will take place in the parking lot after the church service by Chatfield VFW Post No. 6913. Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield is assisting the family with arrangements. To share a condolence with the family, please visit rileyfuneralhomes.com.