Bestul, James Allen of Excelsior age 86 (Jim) Beloved husband of 60 years of Nancy (Chapman) Bestul flew west for the last time on Nov 7, 2019. Son of Sylvan and Rebecca (Ensberg) Bestul. Born in Washington DC. Grew up in Arlington VA and Bremerton WA. Graduated from Capital U in 1955. Served proudly as a Naval Aviator and was a pilot for Northwest Airlines for 34 years. He loved flying, airplanes and sailing but loved all the special family times even more. Summers sailing on Lake Superior was a family highlight for many summers. Once computers became available in the '80's he embraced the technology with enthusiasm. A pencil and paper project categorizing all American airplanes became a huge computer program of over 8000 airplanes. This program, which was still growing at the time of his death, is at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. He is survived by brother, Bruce (Geraldine); sons, Greg (Terri) and Doug (Rhonda); a proud Papa/Grandpa of Kimberly, Erica, Laura, Matthew and Alex. Services on Monday Nov. 18 at 10 A.M. at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 301 County Rd. 19, Excelsior. Visitation one hour prior to service. Interment at Ft. Snelling. In lieu of flowers donations please to American Lung Association, 55 Wacker Dr., Suite 1150, Chicago, IL 60601 Lung.org. Washburn-McReavy.com Strobeck Johnson 952-938-9020