James "Jim" Jansen

James “Jim” Jansen went in peace with his family by his side on Sunday, September 20th, 2026. Jim was a loving husband of 61 years to Kathy, a selfless and caring dad to Joy and James, and a true inspiration to all those close to him.

Jim was born to Albert and Cecelia Jansen in January of 1932 in Olivia, a small dairy farming community in Minnesota. One of five children (3 sons and 2 daughters), Jim was a twin and the youngest of his siblings. Jim served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and later received degrees in Mathematics and Chemistry from Minnesota State University and became a teacher. Jim eventually pursued a career in the pharmaceutical industry and served in a range of executive positions, including as CEO, of various companies.

While Jim enjoyed professional success, he was equally committed to his family and set an example of how to show those around him he loved them. Whether it was coaching little league baseball, attending dance recitals, or writing handwritten notes to show his appreciation and love to his wife, Jim understood what really mattered most in life.

Jim had an adventurous spirit that began at an early age, when he started driving the family’s dairy delivery truck each morning before school at nine years old. That spirit continued during his years in the Navy, when he had the opportunity to see the world, and remained a defining part of his life as he continually challenged himself to try new and exciting things. Together with Kathy, Jim visited all 50 states, traveled the world, and lived in five states and Canada. No matter where life took him, Jim embraced the opportunity for adventure.

Whether it was mountain biking Tsali for the first time at age 65, bicycling across North Carolina twice as part of Cycle NC, hiking the Appalachian Trail well into his 70s, taking college classes and snow skiing into his 90s, or winning a gold medal as a swimmer in the NC Senior Games, Jim was always ready to take on something new. His curiosity, determination, and zest for life never faded, and he continued to challenge himself, learn, explore, and make the most of every opportunity.

Jim will be remembered for his unequalled positivity, commitment to always bettering himself, and his unwavering love and support for his family and friends. Words cannot express how much he will be missed by those who love him.

Jim is survived by children Joy (Dennison) and James (Ana) and three beautiful grandchildren – all of whom had the fortune of fun memories with their granddad. Jim was preceded in death by his wife (Kathy), his parents (Albert and Cecelia) and his four siblings (Jerome, William, Marie, and twin Clare).

A celebration of life in honor of Jim will be scheduled in January for family and friends to come together, share stories and enjoy their time together. In lieu of flowers, those

interested are encouraged to make a small donation to charity of their choice in memory of Jim.