He was preceded in death by his parents and his grandparents, Grace and Marvin Jones, and Ervin and Metta Fisher; his in-laws Lawrence and Mildred Christianson; brother in-laws Douglas and Nolan Christianson and sister-in-law Marlys Anderson.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Diane, of 56 years; their children, Kristin (Joe), Jon, and Tim; their grandchildren, Hailey, Hunter, Ellie, Josie, Taylor, Jack, and Jessica; his uncle and aunt, Leonard and Ruth Jones; and his sister, Pam Wills (Dave), along with their children, Stephanie (Mike) and David.
During high school, Jim excelled as a competitive diver, earning many medals. After graduation, he began attending Ball State University before enlisting in the United States Navy. Upon joining the Navy, he attended ‘Hospital Corps School’ and later volunteered to become a ‘Medevac Corpsman’, attached to the Marine Corps HMM-362 squadron during the Vietnam War. Jim, nicknamed “Doc” by those he served with, flew 408 missions in one year, forming bonds that he cherished throughout his life.
Following Vietnam, he had several notable career accomplishments, including becoming Minnesota’s first physician assistant, something he was very proud of. Jim later went on to become president of Cargill Transportation Services and then transitioned to Director of Logistics at North Star Steel before retiring at 55 years old.
Jim’s greatest joy in life was his family. He especially treasured their annual family week at the lake, where time seemed to slow down and memories were made year after year. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he took every opportunity to tease, laugh, and be present with them.
An avid golfer, Jim enjoyed time on the course with friends, sharing stories and laughter. Jim will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend. His steady presence and deep love for his family will leave a lasting legacy for all who knew him.
Jim’s Celebration of Life will be held on June 20, 2026 at Gearhart Funeral Home
11275 Foley Blvd NW
Coon Rapids. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 12:00 p.m.
The recorded livestream can be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/1198185919/c0ae0087ec?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci
