James Wallin, 73, longtime Brainerd mayor, died unexpectedly Saturday morning, Sept. 26.
Wallin grew up east of Nisswa in Pelican Township and graduated in 1959 from Pequot Lakes High School. His twin brother, John, wrote the following after his brother's death:
"Today is one of the saddest days of my life. At about 3 a.m. I lost my identical twin brother James, due to cardiac arrest. For 73 years James and I shared so many unique and fun experiences by being a twin. I have been truly blessed to have had such a great brother and friend. James was such a caring person for not only his family, but was honored to serve in his favorite city, Brainerd. He took great pride in serving as a spokesperson, as mayor of Brainerd, and I was really proud of all his positive accomplishments he had achieved over the years. James will be missed by many ... I, for one, will always treasure the 73 years we had spent together and the many, many wonderful memories that we have had over the years. Love you brother!!"
The twins were born on their mother's birthday - Nov. 22, 1941 - and were delivered at home by their father, John said.
James was first elected to the city council in 1977 and had held the position of mayor since winning election in 1998.
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Funeral services for James will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at Zion Lutheran Church in Brainerd with Pastor Steve Benson officiating. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2, at Brenny Funeral Chapel in Baxter and one hour prior to services Saturday at the church.
