James Anthony “Jim” Planton, age 76 of Soudan died Saturday, July 22, 2023 in his home surrounded by his family. He was born September 27, 1946 in Virginia, the son of Anthony and Rose (Mertel) Planton, attended Tower- Soudan high school, Mesabi Community College and received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Bemidji State University. Jim married Rebecca Suihkonen on August 7, 1976 in Tower. He was employed as an elementary school teacher in the St. Paul area and returned to the Range in 1978. He was employed by Minntac, LTV Steel, and Inland prior to his retirement in 2006. Jim was a member of St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Tower, and was an animal lover for all his pets. He was a huge NASCAR fan, collected car models, loved in 1966 Chevy SS Convertible, and cherished “lake life”.

            Jim is survived by his wife: Becky, cousins, extended family, friends, and his canine companion Luna.

            He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Jane Planton.

            The Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Tower. Reverend Father Beau Braun will be the celebrant. A gathering time for family and friends will begin one hour prior to the service at the church.

            Memorials may be directed to Contented Critters, P.O. Box 444, Forbes, MN 55738.

            Family services provided by Bauman-Vermilion, A Bauman Family Funeral Home in Tower. To share condolences online, please see: www.baumanfuneral home.com.