E. James Forssell, 79, Bradenton, passed away on Dec. 25, 2012. He was born on May 10, 1933 in St. Paul, MN to the late Rev. G.E. and Minerva (Okerstrom). He served his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He received his Masters Degree from the University of Iowa and moved to Manatee County in 1961 coming from AL. He served as the Music Department Chair and Choral Director for Manatee High School for 34 years. He also served as Minister of Music for many local churches. He was predeceased by his brother, Elmen and is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Helen, son; Jim (Holly) Forssell, two daughters; Julie (Rick) Lease, Joanie Forssell all of Bradenton, two sisters; Elnerva (Jim) Rentz of Sun Lake, AZ, Elnerine (Ken) Johnson of Winter Haven, FL, five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 10-11 A.M. on Saturday, December 29, 2012 with services to follow at 11:00 A.M. at the Calvary Baptist Church, 3006 9th Ave. W., Bradenton. The family requests that in lieu of flowers that memorials be made to either TideWell Hospice or to the E. James Forssell Music Scholarship c/o Manatee High School. Condolences for the family may be made online at www.shannonfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements by Shannon Funeral Home Westview Chapel, Bradenton.