James Edward Swobodzinski

James E. Swobodzinski, 47 of Devils Lake, ND formerly of California died on Thursday, August 27, 2009 at his home. Funeral Services for James will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake, ND with Rev. Robert Buechler officiating. Burial will take place at a later date. James Edward was born on August 28, 1961 in Inglewood, California, the son of Robert and Donna Mae (Paul) Swobodzinski. He was reared and educated in South California. While living in California he worked as a mechanic and tow-truck driver. In the late 1990’s, James moved to North Dakota. He found his true destiny working on the Kim Burt farm, rural Starkweather. Unfortunately, health problems forced him to retire. He also worked for a time as a bartender for his brother, Robert at the Still Standing Bar and Grill in Starkweather. Any spare time James had was spent with his dog, Taz. He was a true and faithful companion to James and James was deeply saddened when Taz died in June. Through all the difficulties, James tried to stay upbeat and he treasured each day he had to spend with his family and friends. James is survived by his brother, Robert Swobodzinski and his wife, Laurie of Starkweather; Three Sisters: Kim Swobodzinski~Pam Kennedy of California and Laura McCann of Fountain Hills, Arizona; Niece: Natalie Alvarez also of California; Special Aunt: Nola Gould of Santa Ana, California; James was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Donna and step father, James Forkner;