James Arnold Urdahl, 78, of Beltrami, Minnesota passed away on May 21, 2026 at RiverView Hospital in Crookston.

James was born on August 13, 1947 at Bethesda Hospital in Crookston to Casper and Harriet Herr Urdahl. James was baptized and confirmed at St Paul's Lutheran Church in Crookston. He attended school at Franklin and Washington Elementary School and graduated from Crookston Central High School.

After graduating high school, he joined the United States Navy where he served aboard the aircraft carriers, USS Intrepid and USS Enterprise. While in the Navy, he was awarded his Navy Aircrew Wings. Throughout his Naval career, James earned many prestigious medals including the Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Unit Commendation Ribbon, and Battle Efficiency Ribbon.

James was proud to claim that thanks to the Navy he was able to visit many continents and countries, including New Zealand and Australia. James retired from the Navy in 1989. After retiring from the Navy, James began a career with American Crystal, where he worked until he retired. In his retirement, James enjoyed his dolphins, music, reading and photography very much as a hobby. In August 1974, James married Helen Irene Wilson of Beltrami. During their five-year marriage, they welcomed 2 daughters, Stacy Lynn and Christina Marie.

James is survived by sister, Valerie Hulst; daughters Stacy and Christina; 3 grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Also, with the loving memory of a very special friend Myrna Lee (Gervai's) Flint.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Casper and Harriet Urdahl; nephew, Michael Hulst; 4 step-brothers, step father, and many aunts and uncles.

James would like to convey a deep appreciation for the many visits and phone calls he received over the last few years of his life.