James Joseph Kersting

james  kersting

James Joseph Kersting
June 14, 1935 – June 15, 2025

James Joseph Kersting, 90, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, in Fargo, North Dakota. Born on June 14, 1935, James lived a full and accomplished life. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army before embarking on a long and successful career. He retired in 2000 as Vice President of Operations and General manager at Mid America Steel in Bismarck, North Dakota. James was a man whose love for learning never waned. An avid reader of history, he continually sought to expand his understanding of the world. He also found great joy in the outdoors, especially hunting alongside his son, grandson, and many friends over the years. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Marlys, his parents, and four sisters. His memory lives on through his children: James Jr. (Cheryl), Katherine (Jon), and Elizabeth (Jeff); nine grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. James will be remembered for his loving heart, generous spirit, and kind nature. A celebration of life will be held at a later date to honor his legacy. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

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  1. I worked for Jim in the early 70s when he was the Forman of the tank shop at the Fargo Foundry, super nice guy and well respected by all those that worked under him.

  2. I’m posting this note for my Dad, Curt Kragero.
    “I feel as though I’ve lost my best friend. I’d been trying to reach Jim recently and was so sad to find out this past Saturday that he’d passed.
    Jim and I had known each other since we were kids, goofing around and occasionally getting in trouble. We sometimes got into trouble together as adults as well! We worked together at the Fargo Foundry for many, many years and I thoroughly enjoyed his company. He was a good, good man and I will always treasure our friendship.”
    Curt Kragero
    Fargo, ND

  3. I worked for Jim at the Bismarck plant of Fargo Foundry / Mid-America Steel during the late 70’s and early 80’s. He was a strong and fair leader. As a young steel worker, Jim challenged me with increasingly complex assignments, and was quick to recognize and reward my successes. I gained enormous respect for Jim. His leadership influenced my subsequent professional career.

    When looking him up to reconnect after all these years and thank him, i was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of his recent passing.

    Rest in peace Mr. Kersting. You were an amazing man who I will always remember!


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