James Robert Brenna, age 67, formerly of Ojo Sarco, NM, and originally from the Mendota Heights/West St Paul MN area, died on November 18, 2016 at the Christian Community Home in Osceola.

Jim was born on April 30, 1949 in St. Paul, MN to Duane and Jane (Rosenberger) Brenna. He grew up in the SE suburbs of the Twin Cities and was a 1967 graduate of Sibley High School in West St. Paul, MN. After graduation, Jim mastered several arts and trades, including rough and finish carpentry which he had learned from his father, motor mechanics, stained glass design and manufacture, and woodcarving, eventually becoming self employed and dedicating many years to helping with projects for his family, friends, and the community. Although he grew up in the Twin Cities, he lived most of his adult life in the beautiful mountainous area near Ojo Sarco, NM. It was there that he enjoyed serving in the Ojo Sarco Volunteer Fire Department, including some years as Chief, from the late 1980s until the early 2000s.

Jim is survived by his twin sister, Virginia; and brothers: Fr. William, Michael, Stephen, Robert, and John. He is preceded in death by his parents, Duane and Jane (nee Rosenberger) Brenna of Inver Grove Heights.

Private family services and interment will be held Wednesday November 23 at St Patrick’s Cemetery, Inver Grove Heights.