James "Jim" Nicholas Denn

DENN, James Nicholas "Jim"

Age 89, of Brooklyn Park, MN

passed away peacefully at home on June 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on November 1, 1936, in Hastings, MN, to Marion and Jerry Denn, Jim grew up to be a man of exceptional kindness, integrity, and warmth.

Jim spent many years working as a lobbyist for independent truckers at the Minnesota Motor Transport Association. He was later appointed by Governor Arne Carlson as the Commissioner of Transportation for the State of Minnesota, serving from 1991 to 1999, where he was highly regarded for his dedication and strong work ethic.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim's greatest joy and proudest achievement was his devotion to God, his family, and his church. A faithful member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, he served his parish community tirelessly for 71 years in many capacities, including Parish Council President, running the Fun Fair, and starting Habitat for Humanity at the church. He was one of the first individuals asked to serve as a Eucharistic minister and, even in his later years, enjoyed serving behind the scenes washing dishes for funeral luncheons.

Jim was a devoted husband to his wife, Rose, for 65 years, and a loving guide to his children. An avid fisherman, artist, tennis player, and sports fan, he found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He was a steady presence and a true anchor for his family, never missing important milestones and always offering a listening ear, wise advice, and a comforting hug.

Survived by his loving wife Rose; children Terri & John Campbell, Jenni & Jeff Schmidt, Mike & Krista Denn, and Brian Denn (Gina Biery);

10 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, all of whom he was incredibly proud of and who will miss him dearly.

His legacy lives on through his beautiful family branches:

•The Campbell Family:

Grandchildren: Anne & Brian George, Melissa & Ryan Dunlap, and Maddie & Tommie Lee

Great-Grandchildren:

MacKenzi, Logan Felix, Arthur, Wesley George; and

Amira Lee

•The Schmidt Family:

Grandchildren: Sam Schmidt (Kelsea Zins) , Nick Schmidt (Alyssa Borgetti), Ben & Fernanda Schmidt, and Abby & Phil Huisinga

Great-grandchildren: Phoenix Schmidt, Luca Huisinga, and Theodore Schmidt

•The Mike Denn Family:

Grandchildren: William Denn and Matthew Denn

•The Brian Denn Family:

Grandchild: James Denn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Jerry Denn, and his brother, Gerald.

A celebration of Jim’s Life will be held on Tuesday, June 30th, 11:00 am at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 7025 Halifax Ave N, Brooklyn Center, MN 55429. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church. and a burial to follow.