James Earl Haefel

James Earl Haefel, also known as “Haefy” and “The Haefmaster” passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on March 21st 2025 at the age of 77 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

James was born on August 28, 1947 in Winona, Minnesota to Earl Joseph Haefel and Mary Josephine Kanz.

James married the love of his life, Nancy Marie Ellison (MAA!) on February 11th, 1967, in Winona, Minnesota. They continued their life together and raised their children in Winona. James’ careers consisted of Buck’s Camera and Bay State Milling, where he eventually retired from.

Early on in life, he enjoyed playing pool and softball. Some of the things he thoroughly enjoyed were spending time and laughing with his wife, children, grand and great-grandchildren. You would often see James spending time with family, friends, and neighbors sitting in his driveway soaking up the sunshine with a cold Busch Light in his hand.

James is survived by his wife, Nancy of 58 years; four children, Jodi Halverson, Shannon (David) Olson, Heather (DaRoss) Jones, and Sean (Teddy Haviland) Haefel; nine grandchildren, Mackenzie (Nick) Schank, Brody (Ally Hilker) Halverson, Jordyn Halverson, Breilynn Halverson, Landen Halverson, Caitlin (Noah) Lanter, Hailey Olson, Jada Jones, and Trey Jones; two great-grandchildren, Weston and Brantley Schank; big brother, Bobby (Mary Lou) Haefel, and younger sister, Arlene (Steve) Libera; sister in-law, Rose Anderson Landsman; eight nieces and one nephew; and eight grand dogs.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Earl (Donna) Haefel, Mary Spieles (Francis Lappier), and in-laws, Edward (Marie) Ellison.

A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, March 27th 2025 from 4pm to 7pm at Hoff Celebration of Life Center, 3480 Service Drive Winona, MN, 55987.

The family of James would like to thank St. Marys Hospital ER, surgical team, and Mary Brigh 7b ICU ward staff for the wonderful care given. Also, thank you to Hoff Celebration of Life Center for the dedicated assistance and care for our loved one.

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