James P. Moriarity

A no frills sort of man, James "Jim" Moriarity lived a life of purpose each day. His work ethic was impeccable, and he was a farmer through and through. Jim was never one to be concerned about what he had, rather, he was focused on doing everything to the best of his ability. Although he treasured the quiet peace of his farm, he came to enjoy being surrounded by loved ones. A man of faith, Jim carried himself with integrity, honor, and compassion toward both people and animals. He created a priceless collection of memories that will be forever cherished by those he leaves behind.With the end of WWI in 1918, America was recognized as a world leader for the first time and poised for greatness. With the eyes of the world focused on our shores for what was to come, we did not disappoint as we led the way in innovation that transformed the way we lived our everyday lives. Radios, motion pictures in both color and sound, and assembly lines that made cars more affordable were among some of the highlights while Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh brought the world of flight to new heights. It was just as the decade that is often remembered as the Roaring Twenties was dawning that a young couple was eagerly awaiting the birth of their new baby as fall was beginning to set in on the small town of Dover, Minnesota, in 1921. Their wait was finally over on September 22nd when the baby boy they named James P. made his arrival. He was one of seven children born to his parents, Patrick and Ethel Moriarity, and he was the middle of the older set of children in his family, sandwiched in-between an older sister and a younger sister who were each separated from him by only one year. After a larger gap there were four more children who joined the Moriarity family, so in total Jim had four sisters, Teresa, Mary Kathleen, and Helen, and two brothers, John and Pat.Even as a young boy Jim was a bustle of activity. He was raised on the family farm in Quincy Township, and since his mother died at a young age Jim and his siblings helped out tremendously on the farm and around the house. For years he farmed with his father, and he later took over the farm. Jim's pride and joy was found in caring for and milking his Guernsey cows. He preferred Case tractors, and he was very particular about his machinery and wanted to keep it nice so he took great care in making sure that there was never anything left outside overnight. There was one year that back problems left Jim unable to farm, but neighbors and his sister, Teresa, stepped in to milk the cows. Hardship also occurred when his barn burned down in the late nineties. Thankfully his neighbor, John Mueller, generously offered his barn to milk in. When the time came, Jim had to sell his cows, and selling them at the Zumbrota Sales Barn was the most difficult day of his life.Jim was known for his big heart and continually thinking of others. When his sister, Teresa, began commuting to work in Rochester, he bought her a car, took care of all maintenance, insurance, and new tires. It was such a treat when all she had to do was put gas in it and head out. When she first married Francis, Jim had a hard time, but only until Francis became a close friend. The pair could often be found attending sales together. He also had a deep love for dogs and cats, especially his three-legged puppy. Since it was common knowledge that Jim took in strays, dogs were frequently abandoned near his home. He once bought a pony for his niece because he thought she wanted one, but it became his pet as she never rode.Over the years Jim enriched his journey with so many people and things he enjoyed. He belonged to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in St. Charles for years. An avid sports fan, Jim loved his Green Bay Packers as well as the Milwaukee Brewers. He also followed sports that were closer to home including St. Charles, Dover-Eyota and Chatfield School sports on the radio - of course only after the chores were done. One of his favorite experiences was when Pat Nicklay took him to the Metrodome for a Dover-Eyota football playoff game. This was a such a special treat as Jim seldom made the trip to the cities. Over time he became more comfortable and accepting of being with groups of families and neighbors. Jim came to enjoy joining in with a house full of kids at the Stokes' family Holidays. He also had the time of his life at his 85th birthday party at Don and Sharon Mueller's place. When he moved to the Golden Living Center in 2007, Jim adjusted to his new surroundings well and appreciated the help he received from others.When reflecting on the life of Jim Moriarity, words such as strong, steadfast, and genuine come to mind. He was also kindhearted and thoughtful as he was willing to do what he could to lighten the load of his family and friends. Jim was known for his strong work ethic and attention to detail. A lifelong resident of the community he loved, he will be deeply missed but never forgotten.James P. "Jim" Moriarity died Monday morning, December 22nd at Golden Living Center in St. Charles. Jim's family includes his sister, Teresa Stokes of Chatfield; brother, John Moriarity of Willow River; and several nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by three sisters, Mary Ellis, Kathleen John, and Helen Bealka and brother, Pat Moriarity, Jr. A Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Friday, January 2nd at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church with the Reverend Kurt Farrell officiating. Cremation will follow with burial in the spring at Calvary Cemetery in St. Charles. Hoff Funeral and Cremation Service of St. Charles is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share a memory, view Jim's video tribute and ready his Life Story, when complete, at www.hofffuneral.com.
Tribute video can be found at: videos.lifetributes.com/553001