James Carlisle

James R. Carlisle (Jim) of Inver Grove Heights passed away on Sunday August 6th at the age of 86. He was born on November 9,1939 in Tyler, MN. His family later moved from Russel to Duluth and then Rosemount where Jim grew up with the challenges of cerebral palsy.

He graduated from The Chicago Institute of Accounting in 1963 and worked as a Public Accountant in his home until his death.

He was actively involved in St. John Lutheran Church where he was financial secretary for many years. He was a longtime board member of the Rosemount Cemetery. Jim was a strong advocate for people with disabilities, testifying several times at the state legislature. He also was a resource for U of M medical classes.

Jim attended Camp Courage from the age of 10. It was there that he proposed to the love of his life, Claudia Sabot. They enjoyed square dancing together with the Perfect Squares. They were married on May 12, 1990.

Jim designed their new home in West St. Paul, complete with his tax office in the basement.

Jim and Claudia joined Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church where Jim was active in SAILS (Showing All Individuals Love)

Jim was so appreciative of those who helped him throughout his life: his cousin Charlie who helped keep the house running, all of his personal care attendants (PCAs) especially Pat Forslund who worked for him for 34 years and his tax assistant for 18 years Carol Linkert. Jim loved flowers and was thankful for those who helped surround him with beauty.

He is preceded in death by his parents Lester and Leona (Jonason) Carlisle.

He is survived by his loving spouse and helpmate Claudia, cousins, nephews, nieces and Goddaughter Brianna Linkert Trembulak.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life for Jim at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church 12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley, MN 55124 on Saturday August 26, 2023.Visitation with the family will begin at 11:00, service at 12:00, with lunch to follow.

Interment will take place at a later date at the Rosemount Cemetery.

In keeping with Jim's lifelong desire to help others, memorials will be directed to Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church to go toward the purchase of a bench near the front entrance of the church for those who are waiting for a ride.