Obituaries : James “Jim” Mathew Meinert

James "Jim" Mathew Meinert, age 86, died Friday, January 12, 2024 in Sioux City, IA at Bickford of Sioux City. He was born on September 7, 1937 to Dallas and Madelon Meinert in Cedar Rapids, IA.

Jim graduated from Keystone High School in Keystone, IA in 1955. After high school graduation, Jim enlisted with several of his Keystone classmates and proudly served his country in the Army. His dedication and commitment to his fellow soldiers were commendable. He met and married his true love, Barbara Jean Luke, of Wyoming, IA. They celebrated 58 years of marriage before Barb passed away in 2021.

Jim and Barb lived in Sioux City, IA where they made lifelong friends. They owned and operated a Dairy Queen in Ottumwa, IA where he delighted customers with his friendly demeanor and delicious treats, before buying Rush Lake Resort in Ottertail, MN. While owning and operating Rush Lake Resort, he created lasting memories for countless visitors, many who became lifelong friends. After retiring they moved to Perham, MN. While residing in Perham, Jim and Barb were members of the Calvary Lutheran Church.

There is far too much to say about Jim as a man in this limited format. He was an extremely humble man who took a genuine interest in others. He had a dry sense of humor and delighted in making others laugh, which was often. He loved fishing, hunting (with his trusting dog, Luke, by his side), playing cards with friends, wearing his bib overalls, the Minnesota Vikings, and the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Jim and Barb were often by one another's side. They traveled every year to his Army buddy reunions, the most recent being in Branson, MO. When they would travel to Sioux City, they always made a stop at their favorite, El Fredo Pizza, as well as the Miles Inn for a Charlie Boy sandwich and an ice-cold schooner of beer. We will miss his ability to make everyone laugh and the meaningful conversations we had with him.

Jim is survived by his brother, Thomas (Jody) Meinert, Lone Tree, CO; nephew, Michael (Julie) Meinert, Castle Pines, CO; niece, Jennifer (Gregg) Meinert-Larson, Castle Pines, CO; sister-in-law, Judy (Jerry) Hangartner, Perham, MN; godson Scott (Kelly) Fravel, Sioux City, IA; many wonderful great-nieces and great-nephews; and countless friends.

He was preceded in death by his adoring wife of 58 years, Barbara; his parents, Dallas and Madelon Meinert; as well as his adored dog, Luke.

Jim leaves behind a legacy of laughter and cherished memories. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Anyone who was blessed enough to experience time with Jim knew the effects that his smile had on you.

His ashes, along with Barbara's, will be buried in Keystone, IA at a later date.

Online condolences: www.phillipsfuneralhomes.com