Mankato, Minnesota - James Lee Ruckle, age 79, of Mankato, MN, passed away peacefully from brain cancer on January 9, 2026, at the Pillars of Mankato.

James was born on September 15, 1946, in Minneapolis, MN, to Norman and Dorothy (Borgerson) Ruckle. He graduated from the University of Minnesota, School of Architecture, in 1978 and received his architectural license in 1983 in the state of Minnesota. James spent his entire professional career at Shea Architects in Minneapolis and fully retired at the age of seventy and a half.

James enjoyed spending time with family, traveling, fishing, hunting, gardening, and woodworking.

On June 7, 1969, James was united in marriage to Gladys Irene VanDyke. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Gladys; two children, Shawna (Travis) Hulzebos and Kara (Thomas) Kuehn; four grandchildren; and three brothers. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Dale.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Crossview Covenant Church, 2000 W. Howard Dr., Mankato, MN 56003. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Northview-North Mankato Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements, www.mankatomortuary.com

The family expresses their heartfelt thanks to Mayo Clinic, the Pillars of Mankato, and St. Croix Hospice for their wonderful and compassionate care.