Family, Friends Honor Former American Legion Chaplain

Family and friends gathered at the , 1291 Oakwood Ave., for a memorial service for Angie James, the American Legion Auxiliary’s former chaplain, and Florence Tanka, a past president, on Tuesday evening.

On a day to celebrate love, Valentine’s Day, it was evident by the words that were spoken at the ceremony that Angie was very much loved and missed.

Angie was the victim in a murder-suicide last month. Roger James, her husband, and the post’s president, allegedly shot her and then himself.

Jo-Ellen Clawes spoke about the ill veterans Angie visited when she wasn’t working, and about her service at ceremonies and events at the American Legion post.

“My love for Angie cannot be put into words,” Clawes said. “She was never too busy to make time for us.”

Earlier:

Don Meseth, the new commander of the post, said Angie was very warm and helpful.

“She did so much,” Meseth said. “I don’t think there was anything she wouldn’t do if someone asked her.”

Meseth said one of his favorite memories of Angie was when she helped Spanish-speaking people hosting events at the post, such as baptisms, communicate with him and others about what they needed, and answer questions about the post.

Tony Tomasello, 88, said he remembered Angie’s gentle smile.

“She was a sweet, wonderful woman, and very attractive and pretty,” Tomasello said. “She had a nice way about herself.”

Tomasello said Angie was humble, warm, and affectionate, and she made everyone at the post feel respected and liked.

“She was well-liked, and a person who was well-liked — you can’t forget them,” Tomasello said.

A memorial service for will take place at American Legion Post 36 on Feb. 21.

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