James F. Christie, age 71, passed away in his home Friday, October 6th, 2023, of natural causes.
Jim was born November 7th, 1951 to Dilman and Dorothy (Hanf) Christie in Rochester, MN and was brought home in a blizzard. Jim was a lifelong resident of the Racine and Stewartville areas. He grew up on the family farm and was a 1969 graduate of Stewartville High School and attended Austin Area Vocational Technical School for Farm Equipment Mechanics. In 1975 Jim married Kim Vrieze and was later divorced. Jim married Deborah (Gleason) on July 11th, 2012 in Cresco, IA and made their home in Stewartville.
Jim spent his adult life doing what he loved most in this world – supporting farming and agriculture. Jim was well known from his employment at Racine Implement, the parts store in Spring Valley, Seneca Foods (Libby’s) in Rochester or his partnership with Bruce Bucknell at one of the area’s first Arctic Cat snowmobile dealerships (South Broadway Sales in Spring Valley). Most recently Jim was self-employed as a farm chemical dealer where he was able to visit regularly, on “Jim-time”, with many people across the area.
Everyone knew Jim for his cheerful smile and his love of a good story. He had a way of making people feel special in his presence and enjoyed making new friends any place he visited. Being the adventurer and self-proclaimed “tour-guide” that Jim was, he took several trips with friends and family to explore the countryside, making memories along the way with his gift of gab. Snowmobiling was a passion of his, where many tall tales originated from throughout the years. Jim was a life-long connoisseur of food, which was how he connected with his wife, Deb (aka the Pie Lady) who is known far and wide for her cooking and baking.
Although Jim had no children, he always looked out for the “kids” in his life that he loved dearly as if they were his own. This included stepchildren, step-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends. Jim leaves behind his wife, Deb, of 11 years and his treat-loving wiener dog Buddy. He is survived by a step-son, Chris (Patty Boyum) Gleason of Stewartville, MN; and a step-daughter, Lindsey Davis of South St. Paul, MN; five grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Jim’s surviving siblings include Charles (Jane) Christie of rural Spring Valley, MN; Paul (Jacky) Christie of Fond du Lac, WI; Mary Bredesen of Racine, MN; and Suzanne (Tim) Seehusen of Stewartville, MN. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.
A celebration of life will be held at The Old 7th Event Center in Racine, MN on Sunday, October 15th, 2023, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Although Jim would not have wanted anyone to make a fuss, the family looks forward to seeing his friends come to share one last story of the many adventures we have all enjoyed with him throughout his lifetime. Please join us in honoring Jim’s memory.
Memories and condolences of Jim may be shared at rochestercremationservicesmn.com
Thoughts and prayers for your family Chris.