James "Jim" Eiler

James “Jim” Eiler passed away on Friday, September 18, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. True to form, Jim kept his sense of humor through it all, cracking jokes to the very end and reminding everyone around him that even the hardest days could still hold a reason to laugh.

Born on October 15, 1949, Jim was born and raised in Minnesota. In 1995, he and his beloved wife, Kathy, made Henderson, Nevada, their home. Jim and Kathy shared a life built around love, family, and plenty of stories worth telling.

One of his favorite sayings captured him perfectly: “When it’s too tough for everyone else, it’s just right for me.” It was not simply something he said; it was how he lived. Whether he was serving his country, driving a semi-truck across countless miles, or battling cancer, Jim met every challenge with grit, humor, and a determination that was entirely his own.

Jim loved fishing, especially at Lake of the Woods, and he was always happy to golf just about anywhere. But more than fishing trips, golf courses, or miles on the road, Jim loved his family. He was the life of the party, the one with a joke ready, and the person people naturally gathered around. He was loved by so many, and the laughter, stories, and memories he leaves behind will continue to bring people together.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathryn; parents, Norma and Sylvester; stepmother, Elsie; mother-in-law, Dorothy; brothers and sisters, Karen, Betty Jo, Butch, and Greg; brother-in-law, Steve; sister-in-law, Patricia; and son-in-law, Gary.

He is survived by daughters Jami and Hogi (Mike); son Chris; sisters: Liz (Mike) and Mary (John); grandchildren: Jasmine and Jaxon; and many beloved nephews and nieces.

A Celebration of Life will be held at American Legion Post 225, 355 W Broadway Avenue, Forrest Lake, MN 55025, on October 11, 2026, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Jim to hug their loved ones, raise a glass in his memory, and share a favorite Jim story.