James David Lekander

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of James David Lekander on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, in Clayton, North Carolina, at the age of 57. Jim was born on March 13, 1968, and grew up on his family’s dairy farm in St. Cloud, Florida, with his parents, Paul and Barbara Lekander, and his two brothers, Michael and Craig.

Jim was proud to serve in the United States Air Force, specializing in Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratory (PMEL). During his distinguished service, Jim was deployed to the Middle East to support Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. He served with courage and honor, and we’ll always remember the excitement of seeing our beloved Airman being interviewed on CNN shortly after the war commenced. Soon after celebrating their nuptials, Jim and Stacy were fortunate to be assigned to Ramstein AB, Germany and spent the first four years of their marriage traveling throughout Europe, creating memories to be treasured. In addition to serving his country, Jim earned an Associate Degree in Electronic Systems Technology (CCAF), and a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle University.

Following his time in the military, he returned home and embarked on a career as a Senior Field Engineer for Waters Corporation and Thermo Fisher Scientific, developing expertise in Mass Spectrometry and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Systems. He enjoyed extensive travel both domestically and internationally throughout his career. Jim’s strong work ethic was a testament to his love for his family, and he took great pride in every challenge he faced.

Jim enjoyed traveling with his family, computer projects with his daughter, nature hikes with his wife and three Rhodesian Ridgebacks, honing his skills at the firing range, and his culinary skills were legendary. He loved to tinker, could fix anything, and always had a pocketknife and flashlight at the ready. Gathering family and friends around the fire pit to serve up his famous Reese’s S’mores was one of his favorite ways to spend a Saturday evening. He had a clever sense of humor and never missed an opportunity to insert a Dad joke. Though we are deeply saddened, we find comfort in the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave us.

Jim is preceded in death by his father, Paul H. Lekander; mother-in-law, Barbara G. Vinciguerra; grandparents, Carl and Clara Lekander, and Esker J. Jr and Edrie K. Farris; and his faithful canine companions, Anjo, Midas, and Thatcher.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Stacy Lekander; daughter, Gillian (Nathaniel) and their precious pup, Ryker; his mother, Barbara Lekander; brothers, Michael Lekander (John), and Craig Lekander (Joy); uncle, E. Jay Farris III (Jamie); aunt, Thea Genene Shreve (Dale); father-in-law, Charles Vinciguerra; sister-in-law, Lisa Demers (Chuck); brother-in-law, David Vinciguerra (Jennifer); and his nieces and nephews, Kourtney (Cody), Allison, Mikayla, Cody (Victoria), Natalie, Nathan, Wyatt (Ryley), and Jace.

Jim attended Calvery Chapel Clayton to worship our Heavenly Father and focus on the Word of the Lord.

A memorial service will be held for Jim on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 12:00 pm at Calvary Chapel Clayton Church at 935 Shotwell Rd, Clayton, NC 27520. The family will receive friends at the church from 11:00am-12:00pm, just before the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jim’s honor to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. https://t2t.org

The family of James Lekander wishes to thank our friends and family for their prayers, visits, cards, and every act of kindness during this hour of sorrow. You have given us strength.