Community members gathered Saturday at the Zion Lutheran Church for the funeral of longtime Mayor James Wallin. At the age of 73, Wallin died of a heart attack. But Saturday was spent sharing memories and celebrating the life of a man that gave his heart to Brainerd.

And hundreds packed inside the pews of the church and folding chairs along the sides of the room to pay their respects to the family and to former mayor James Wallin.

And after the family entered for the service friends and family shared just how much James touched their city and their lives.

His oldest daughter even shared a lightening story about how her father came to the rescue when she needed a last minute show and tell item.

Tears may have been shed, but everyone in attendance was there to show their support for a man who showed his community support for numerous years.

James’s wife Minna was presented a U.S. flag in honor of her husband’s service and a 21- gun salute was put on right outside the church.

And as a bagpiper played Wallin’s remains were taken out of the church and placed in a hearse as family linked together for their final goodbyes.

By — Chelsie Brown

News/Sports Reporter in Brainerd