James Rice

James M. Rice, age 82, of Pequot Lakes, MN, died at St. Joseph’s Medical Center on July 3, 2026. He was born on December 1, 1943, to Sidney and Tillie (Wiese) Rice in Mullen, NE. He attended Pine River School and served in the Army Reserve.

Jim is survived by his wife, Charlene (Heino) Rice; daughters, Renae (Rice) Anderson (Andrew) of Backus, MN, and Rhonda (Rice) Early of Texarkana, TX; brother, Leo (Karen) Rice of Wickenburg, AZ; sister-in-law, Louise Rice of Remer, MN; three grandchildren, Dakota, Kayla Jo, and Camo from Texarkana, TX; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter, Sheila, and brothers, Donnie, Robert, and Lee Rice.

Jim owned and operated Northern Excavating Inc. for 50 years. He enjoyed operating heavy equipment, farming, doing mechanic work, deer hunting, checking on the cows, and spending time with family.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Brenny Funeral Home in Pine River, MN, with a visitation the hour prior. In lieu of flowers, donations to a local charity of your choice would be appreciated.