James Wallace "Ike" Isakson
Born April 10, 1935, in Oakes, North Dakota, Ike graduated from Oakes High School before proudly serving in the United States Coast Guard from 1953 to 1957. After graduating from Valley City State Teachers College in 1960, Ike moved his family to Sheridan where he began a 28-year career at Sheridan High School. Ike taught business classes (1960-1969), served as Assistant Principal (1969-1975) and Principal (1975-1988). While at Sheridan High School, he coached freshman basketball, sophomore basketball, and cross country. Ike was known for his calm presence, quick humor, and commitment to students, leaving a lasting legacy in the community he loved.
Upon retiring, Ike purchased and ran the Sheridan Trophy Case for many years.
A lifelong sportsman, Ike's first love was golf, and he was a fixture on the course for decades. He maintained a single-digit handicap for years and accomplished the rare feat of shooting his age-multiple times-something few can claim and even fewer can do while still looking stylish in plaid pants.
Ike is survived by his wife, Nancy; his children, Mark, Craig, and Paula; and his seven grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
He will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and the gentle way he led others-often without them even realizing it.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you play a round of golf, share a story, lend a hand, or teach a kid something useful-just as Ike would have done.