Jim Pehler 1942-2021
Jim Pehler, age 79, passed away on Wednesday, September 22, 2021. Jim was a great friend of LEAF. He served a 6-year term on the LEAF board and continued to be connected closely to LEAF even after his term ended – and even after he developed considerable health issues in recent years. He was a key member of our Learning Renaissance committee for many years and was the leader of our “wine auction” at each Learning Renaissance. Being very out-going, Jim simply would not give up until all the wine corks were sold! He and his wife Bev have been consistent and generous donors to LEAF programs.
Community Service was a key component of Jim’s life. He had a career as an educator at SCSU, served several terms in the House and Senate of the Minnesota Legislature, and served on many nonprofit boards in St. Cloud, in addition to LEAF.
“I considered Jim a friend. He recently stopped by the LEAF office to make a gift and to talk about what was going on with LEAF. He will be missed by all of us at LEAF and in the greater St. Cloud Community.” – Bruce Hentges, LEAF Executive Director
You can find Jim’s obituary in the St. Cloud Times or at Benson Funeral Home.
The Kiwanis Club recently donated $1,500 to LEAF. The Club donated $500 of their gift to support the PAKRAT summer bus program. As part of the Kiwanis 100th Anniversary Celebration, $1,000 was donated to the Adopt a Classroom program to be split between four classrooms (100 students). One classroom will be at Lincoln, one at Madison and two at Talahi Elementary. Over the years, the Kiwanis Club has been very supportive of LEAF programs. Thanks Kiwanis!!